In a thunderous roar of triumph, India Women seized their first ICC Women’s ODI World Cup on November 2, 2025, crushing South Africa by 52 runs in a rain-soaked epic. From tournament underdogs to queens of the pitch, Harmanpreet Kaur’s warriors defied odds, blending fiery batting, spin wizardry, and unbreakable spirit to etch history in gold.
Quick Insights
- India Women won their first ICC ODI World Cup 2025, beating South Africa by 52 runs.
- Came back strong after early defeats—true underdogs to champions.
- Shafali (87 & 2/24) and Deepti (58 & 5/39) starred;
- Harmanpreet’s leadership shone. A historic win that ignites a new era for women’s cricket in India.
From Underdogs to Unstoppable Force: A Tale of Triumph
Rising like phoenixes from early defeats to Australia, England, and New Zealand, India’s squad ignited a comeback fire, storming through the group stage to claim the final. Shafali Verma’s blistering 87 anchored a 298/7 total, while South Africa’s chase faltered at 246 all out. Deepti Sharma’s magical 5/39 and Shafali’s surprise bowling heroics turned the tide, proving this team isn’t just talented—it’s legendary, with Jemimah Rodrigues and Smriti Mandhana adding steel to the spine. Their unity and resilience transformed setbacks into a symphony of success, inspiring a nation and shattering barriers for women’s cricket.
Heroes who sparked the Sparkle: Stars that shone bright
- Shafali Verma: The 21-year-old fireball’s 87 and 2/24 made her the youngest Player of the Match in World Cup knockouts—pure dynamite on and off the field.
- Deepti Sharma: A double delight of 58 runs and 5/39 wickets, plus tournament-leading 22 scalps— the all-rounder who redefined brilliance.
- Harmanpreet Kaur: At 36, the oldest captain to lift the trophy, her bold leadership and motivational magic turned dreams into destiny.
- Laura Wolvaardt: South Africa’s defiant 78 nearly stole the show, a testament to her warrior heart in defeat.
- Marizanne Kapp: Her 45 and 2/49 kept the Proteas alive, a veteran force of nature.
In the end, this isn’t just a win—it’s a revolution. As Harmanpreet Kaur passed the trophy to icons like Mithali Raj and Jhulan Goswami, the crowd’s cheers echoed a promise: India Women are here to dominate, inspire, and redefine greatness. Champions forever!
