The wait is over-India has claimed the title of world champions in cricket, marking a historic moment for women’s cricket. In a stunning display of talent and teamwork, India secured their first ICC Women’s World Cup title by defeating South Africa by 52 runs in a gripping final at DY Patil Stadium on Sunday, November 2.
After a rain delay pushed back the toss, India, set to bat first, scored an impressive 298 runs for the loss of seven wickets over 50 overs. This total stands as the second-highest ever recorded in a Women’s World Cup final. Young opener Shafali Verma led the charge with a powerful innings, scoring 87 runs off 78 balls, while Deepti Sharma contributed a steady 58 not out, anchoring the innings following a swift start. Richa Ghosh added a late burst, finishing with 34 runs off just 24 balls, pushing India toward the 300-run milestone.
While India encountered some turbulence in the middle order, their batting remained aggressive and focused. Noteworthy contributions came from Smriti Mandhana (45), Jemimah Rodrigues (24), and captain Harmanpreet Kaur (20), who all played key roles before falling victim to South Africa’s precise bowling, spearheaded by Ayabonga Khaka and Nadine de Klerk.
South Africa began their chase of 299 with a robust opening partnership between Laura Wolvaardt, who scored a commendable 101, and Tazmin Brits (23), who shared a solid 68-run stand. However, the momentum shifted dramatically due to a brilliant direct hit from Amanjot Kaur, which dismissed Brits and changed the course of the match. Deepti Sharma then delivered an unforgettable performance, taking five crucial wickets and decimating South Africa’s middle order, effectively sealing India’s victory.
Deepti’s precise bowling dismantled key players, including Wolvaardt, and Shafali Verma also made an impact by claiming two important wickets. South Africa ultimately collapsed for 246 runs in 45.3 overs, falling short of their target despite Wolvaardt’s valiant effort.
This victory represents more than just a score-it encapsulates an emotional journey for a team that has long aspired for greatness. From heart-wrenching near-misses in 2005 and 2017 to this glorious moment in 2025, this win signifies a new chapter in Indian women’s cricket.
As tears of joy flowed, the stadium erupted with chants of “Vande Mataram.” Even men’s cricket captain Rohit Sharma was seen in the stands, visibly moved as the women’s team achieved the triumph that had evaded his own side.
Having vanquished Australia in the semi-finals, India maintained their unbeaten run throughout the tournament at the Navi Mumbai venue. This victory also served as redemption for their earlier group-stage defeat to South Africa in Vizag, bringing their campaign full circle.
With this match, India now boasts an advantageous head-to-head record against South Africa in One Day Internationals, with 21 victories out of 35 encounters-a clear indication of their rising dominance.
The DY Patil Stadium will forever be etched in history as the site where the Women in Blue clinched the world title.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/sport/story/india-clinch-historic-maiden-icc-womens-world-cup-title-crush-south-africa-by-52-runs-in-electrifying-final-1298515-2025-11-03?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-11-03 00:15:00
