A night to remember. A dream finally realized.
On November 2, 2025, at the electric Dr. DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, India’s women’s cricket team etched their names in history by lifting their first-ever ICC Women’s ODI World Cup trophy — defeating South Africa by 52 runs in a thrilling finale that had the entire nation on its feet.
The Grand Finale – India vs South Africa
Under the lights, India batted first and set a strong foundation with a total of 298/7 in 50 overs.
- Shafali Verma, fiery as ever, smashed 87 off just 78 balls, setting the tone for the innings.
- Deepti Sharma, calm and composed, added a crucial 58 runs before turning destroyer with the ball.
When South Africa began their chase, the tension was palpable. Skipper Laura Wolvaardt fought valiantly with a classy 101, but Deepti Sharma’s magical spell of 5 wickets for 39 runs broke the back of their resistance. South Africa folded for 246 in 45.3 overs, handing India a 52-run victory — and a moment that will live forever.
The Stars of the Tournament
- Deepti Sharma — The heartbeat of India’s campaign. Her all-round brilliance (215 runs & 22 wickets) earned her the Player of the Tournament award.
- Shafali Verma — Explosive, fearless, and precise when it mattered most. Her 87 in the final and crucial wickets earned her the Player of the Final title.
- Harmanpreet Kaur — The captain who led from the front with composure, belief, and clarity. Her leadership turned a talented side into champions.
Jemimah Rodrigues — The semi-final hero who powered India past defending champions Australia with an unbeaten 127.
The Road to Glory
India’s World Cup campaign wasn’t smooth sailing. After a shaky league phase with three early losses, doubts surrounded the team’s form. But when it mattered most, they clicked — peaking at the knockout stages.
In the semi-final, India stunned Australia in a record-breaking chase of 339 runs — a match that many fans called the true turning point of the tournament. That victory lit the fire that carried them to the championship.
The 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup wasn’t just a tournament — it was a statement.
India didn’t just win; they conquered doubts, shattered stereotypes, and inspired millions.From Deepti Sharma’s magic spell to Shafali Verma’s fearless strokeplay, and Harmanpreet Kaur’s unshakable leadership — this was a team of destiny.
This is not just the rise of a team. This is the dawn of a new era in Indian cricket.
