India Women defeated South Africa by 52 runs to claim their maiden ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 title at DY Patil Stadium.
MUMBAI: In a historic moment for Indian cricket, the India Women’s team secured their first-ever ICC Women’s World Cup title by defeating South Africa by 52 runs in a thrilling final at DY Patil Stadium. The home side delivered a dominant all-round performance to etch their name into cricketing history.
Batting first after a brief rain delay, India posted a formidable total of 298/7, the second-highest score ever in a Women’s World Cup final. The innings was anchored by a fiery knock of 87 runs from Shafali Verma, supported by Smriti Mandhana’s 45 and a composed 58 off 58 balls from Deepti Sharma. The Indian top order ensured a strong start, while the middle order capitalised on the momentum to build a competitive total.
South Africa began their chase with determination, but India’s disciplined bowling attack and sharp fielding proved too much. Despite a valiant century from Laura Wolvaardt, the Proteas fell short under pressure from a focused Indian side. The Indian bowlers picked up timely wickets, and the fielding unit ensured South Africa never gained full control of the run chase.
This victory marks a turning point for women’s cricket in India, ending a long wait after previous heartbreaks in the 2005 and 2017 finals. The crowd in Mumbai witnessed not only a sporting triumph but the start of a promising new era for Indian women in international cricket.
Head coach and players dedicated the win to millions of fans across the country who have supported the women’s team through highs and lows. “This win is for every young girl who dreams of wearing the India jersey,” said captain Harmanpreet Kaur.
The ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 final is already being hailed as one of the most iconic matches in women’s cricket, setting new standards for competition, viewership, and support in the sport.
