India’s women’s cricket team made history by winning their first-ever Women World Cup title after defeating South Africa by 52 runs in the final match at DY Patil Stadium on Sunday.
South Africa’s captain Laura Wolvaardt won the toss and chose to field first, but the decision backfired as India’s top order delivered a commanding performance. Openers Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma gave India a flying start with a 104-run partnership. Mandhana scored 45 runs, while Verma smashed 87 off 64 balls with nine fours and three sixes.
Middle-order batter Deepti Sharma added a vital 58 runs from 58 balls, stabilizing the innings after the openers’ dismissal. Richa Ghosh also played a quick 34-run knock, helping India post a strong total of 298 for 7 in 50 overs. South Africa’s Ayabonga Khaka was the standout bowler, claiming three wickets.
Chasing 299, South Africa began steadily with a 51-run opening stand. However, their momentum slowed when Anneke Bosch was dismissed for a duck. Sune Luus added 25 runs before being caught out, leaving the team struggling at 114 for 3.
Captain Laura Wolvaardt fought hard, scoring 98 runs off 111 balls with 11 fours and a six, but lacked consistent support from her teammates. Annemarie Dercksen tried to rebuild the innings with a 35-run effort, yet South Africa eventually collapsed for 246 in the 46th over.
Deepti Sharma delivered a match-winning bowling performance, taking five wickets to seal India’s victory and secure their maiden Women World Cup crown.
Shafali Verma was named Player of the Match for her explosive batting, while Deepti Sharma received the Player of the Tournament award for her all-round brilliance in the Women World Cup 2025.
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The triumph marks a historic moment for Indian women’s cricket and a new chapter in the global journey of the Women World Cup.
