Indian Girls Bring Glory Home: Women’s Cricket Team Lifts Maiden World Cup in an Electrifying Final
By Nanditha Subhadra
In a moment that will be etched in the annals of Indian cricket history, the Indian women’s cricket team scripted a fairy-tale ending to their long wait by clinching the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. On a balmy evening at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, the hosts outclassed a resilient South Africa by 52 runs, posting 298 for 7 before bundling out the Proteas for 246. This victory wasn’t just about lifting the silverware— it was a testament to the grit, skill, and unyielding spirit of a group of young women who rose against the odds, defeating cricketing giants along the way and bringing unparalleled glory to the nation.
The final, played under the watchful eyes of a roaring home crowd, showcased India at their imperious best. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, captain Harmanpreet Kaur’s side laid down a formidable total, fueled by a batting masterclass that blended aggression with composure. Opener Shafali Verma, the 21-year-old prodigy from Haryana, set the tone with a blistering 87 off just 72 balls, her knock laced with 11 fours and a towering six that echoed the stadium’s electric atmosphere. Joining her in a crucial partnership was Smriti Mandhana, who contributed a fluent 45, providing stability at the top. As the innings progressed, Richa Ghosh’s quickfire 34 off 25 balls injected momentum, pushing India past the 250-mark.
But it was Deepti Sharma who emerged as the undisputed star of the show. The off-spinner, already a mainstay in India’s limited-overs setup, elevated her game to another level. Batting at No. 6, Deepti smashed a match-turning 58 off 52 deliveries, her aggressive strokeplay rescuing the innings from a mid-order wobble. With the ball, she was even more devastating, claiming a five-wicket haul (5/39)—her best figures in a World Cup final. Deepti’s old-school overspin, combined with modern defensive variations, dismantled South Africa’s chase, leaving the visitors reeling at 78 for 5 at one stage. Shafali chipped in with 2/36, her part-time off-spin proving surprisingly effective on a pitch that offered grip and turn.
South Africa, led by the elegant Laura Wolvaardt’s defiant century (101 off 112 balls), fought valiantly but could never quite bridge the gap. Wolvaardt’s knock, a lone beacon in a crumbling innings, kept the Proteas in the hunt until Deepti’s arm ball castled her in the 35th over. Nadine de Klerk’s late fireworks (35 off 22) offered a glimmer of hope, but Amanjot Kaur’s sharp catch to dismiss her sealed the deal. Ayabonga Khaka picked up 3/58 for South Africa, but it wasn’t enough to stem the tide.
This wasn’t a fluke; it was the culmination of a tournament-defining campaign where India toppled “tall teams” like Australia (twice, including a semi-final thriller) and England in the league stages. As hosts, the pressure was immense, but under Harmanpreet’s calm leadership, the side transformed it into fuel. “It’s still sinking in,” an emotional Harmanpreet said post-match, her voice cracking with joy. “We’ve had heartbreaks in past World Cups, but this team believed we had a responsibility to women’s cricket in India. The support over the last month has been unreal.”
The victory reverberated across the country, inspiring a generation of young girls who now see cricket not just as a man’s game, but a canvas for their dreams. President Droupadi Murmu hailed it as a “historic achievement that will elevate women’s cricket to new heights,” while industrialist Gautam Adani called it “a victory of spirit and grace.” Cricket legends joined the chorus: Sachin Tendulkar tweeted, “They have inspired countless young girls across the country to pick up a bat and ball,” and Virat Kohli echoed, “What a moment for Indian cricket! Absolute champions!” Even Google CEO Sundar Pichai reminisced about the 1983 men’s triumph, noting how this win would “inspire a whole generation.”
For the young brigade—Shafali, Deepti (both 24), and the likes of Saika Ishaque and Titas Sadhu—this World Cup proves their competence and capability on the global stage. They didn’t just beat the odds; they redefined them, showing that with talent, hard work, and a dash of fearlessness, barriers can be shattered. As Mithali Raj, the former captain who mentored many in this squad, put it: “From the heartbreak of 2005 to the fight of 2017, every tear, every sacrifice… today, our Women’s Cricket Team has done something truly special.”
Congratulations to Harmanpreet Kaur, her fearless warriors, and the entire support staff. This fabulous effort has not only brought home the trophy but also lit a fire in the hearts of millions. India stands tall today—proud, united, and utterly victorious. The girls have shown the world: when women lead, legends follow.
