Mumbai — A dream long awaited finally came true for Indian cricket on Sunday night. The Indian women’s team lifted their first-ever ICC Women’s One Day International (ODI) World Cup trophy after defeating South Africa by 52 runs in a thrilling final at the DY Patil Sports Academy in Mumbai.
A Defining Moment for Indian Women’s Cricket
The victory marks a golden chapter in India’s sporting history. After knocking out Australia in the semifinal, India entered the final with confidence, while South Africa secured their spot by overcoming England.
Batting first, India produced a commanding total of 298 for seven in 50 overs. Opener Shafali Verma played a sparkling innings of 87 off 78 balls, hitting seven fours and two sixes. Deepti Sharma added solidity with a composed 58 off 58 balls, while Smriti Mandhana scored a stylish 45 decorated with eight boundaries.
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur, Richa Ghosh, and Jemimah Rodrigues made vital late contributions, guiding India to a strong finish.
Deepti Sharma’s Magic with the Ball
Deepti Sharma turned the game completely in India’s favor with the ball, producing one of the best spells of her career. She took five wickets for just 39 runs in nine overs, dismantling South Africa’s middle order with sharp accuracy and control. Shafali Verma and Shree Charani supported her effort with two and one wickets respectively.
For South Africa, captain Laura Wolvaardt fought a lone battle, scoring a brave 101 off 98 balls, including 11 boundaries and one six. But beyond her resistance, India’s disciplined attack allowed no breakthroughs. Anneke Dercksen made 35, Sune Luus added 25, and Tazmin Brits chipped in 23 before the innings folded for 246 in 45.3 overs.
India’s Historic Triumph
South Africa tried to fight back, but India remained in control from start to finish. Bowler Ayabonga Khaka picked up three wickets for South Africa, while Nonkululeko Mlaba, Nadine de Klerk, and Chloe Tryon each claimed one. Yet, nothing could stop India from seizing their long-awaited moment.
When the final wicket fell, the stadium erupted. Players hugged, tears flowed, and the tricolor waved proudly. After lifting the trophy, captain Harmanpreet Kaur said with emotion, “This is not just a win — it’s the result of years of belief, hard work, and dedication to women’s cricket in India.”
