Image Source hindustantimes
Navi Mumbai, November 2, 2025:
The Indian women’s cricket team scripted history at the Dr. DY Patil Stadium on Sunday night, lifting their maiden ICC Women’s World Cup title with a commanding 52-run victory over South Africa in a pulsating final.
India’s Batting Brilliance
Opting to bat first, India set the stage ablaze with a total of 298 for 7 in 50 overs — their highest score in any World Cup final.
Young opener Shafali Verma was the star of the innings, smashing a scintillating 87 off 68 balls, filled with fearless stroke-play and elegant timing.
Middle-order mainstay Deepti Sharma anchored the innings with a composed 58, steering India from a mid-innings wobble to a formidable total. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur’s quickfire cameo added the final flourish that sent the crowd into raptures.
South Africa’s Valiant Chase
Chasing 299 for glory, Laura Wolvaardt led South Africa’s fight with a magnificent century, her second of the tournament. However, wickets fell regularly at the other end as India’s disciplined bowling attack applied relentless pressure.
Deepti Sharma continued her dream night, taking five crucial wickets, including the prized scalp of Wolvaardt, sealing the victory and earning the Player of the Tournament award.
South Africa eventually folded for 246 all out, falling short despite moments of resilience.
Celebration and Emotion
As the final wicket fell, the Indian camp erupted — tears, hugs, and unrestrained joy filled the stadium. For a nation that had come agonizingly close in previous editions, this was redemption and triumph rolled into one.
Crowds chanted “India! India!” as the players lifted the trophy under a cascade of fireworks — a sight destined to be etched in Indian sporting history.
A Defining Moment for Women’s Cricket
This victory marks a turning point for women’s cricket in India. Beyond the silverware, it symbolizes years of progress, belief, and perseverance.
The triumph is expected to bring renewed investment, grassroots participation, and recognition for the women’s game, inspiring a new generation of players.
[Newsroom staff written original, where key claims or facts are used, I’ve referenced the original sources (like The Times of India, Hindustan Times, etc.) transparently.]
