India Claims Maiden Women's Cricket World Cup Title
Navi Mumbai, India - In a historic moment for Indian cricket, the women's team clinched their first-ever ICC Women's Cricket World Cup title, defeating South Africa by 52 runs in a thrilling final at the Dr. DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Sunday. The victory sparked celebrations across the nation, with fans and officials lauding the team's remarkable performance.
After winning the toss, South Africa elected to bowl, giving India the opportunity to set the tone. India's innings got off to a flying start, with Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana establishing a formidable 100-run partnership for the first wicket. Mandhana contributed a fluent 45 before being dismissed, while Verma continued to dominate, scoring a career-best 87 off 78 balls.
However, South Africa fought back, with Khaka dismissing both Verma and Jemimah Rodrigues in quick succession, causing a brief wobble in the Indian innings. Deepti Sharma then steadied the ship, contributing a valuable 58. Richa Ghosh added late momentum with a lively cameo of 34, pushing India's total close to 300. Despite a brilliant final over from Nadine de Klerk, which limited India's late flourish, the hosts posted a competitive total of 298/7. This was the second-highest score in a Women's ODI World Cup final.
Chasing 299 for victory, South Africa started well, with captain Laura Wolvaardt leading the charge. Wolvaardt scored a brilliant 101 off 98 balls, but her dismissal proved to be the turning point in the match. Deepti Sharma triggered a dramatic collapse, taking the crucial wicket of Wolvaardt and ultimately finishing with figures of 5-39 from 9.3 overs. South Africa's innings crumbled from 209 for 5 to 246 all out.
Shafali Verma was named Player of the Match for her outstanding performance with the bat and her crucial wickets. Deepti Sharma was awarded Player of the Tournament for her consistent contributions throughout the World Cup.
India's victory marks a significant milestone in the history of women's cricket in the country. It was the first Women's World Cup final that did not involve Australia or England. This win is India's first major women's cricket title. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the team on their historic achievement, recognizing their exceptional teamwork and tenacity. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced an all-time high prize money of approximately 37.3 crore rupees for the team, a 239% increase from the last edition, underscoring the growing recognition and value of women's cricket. This victory is expected to boost the visibility and growth potential of women's cricket both in India and internationally.
