World Champions: History was made at the DY Patil Stadium as India Women lifted their first-ever ICC Women’s ODI World Cup, defeating South Africa by 52 runs in a thrilling final on Sunday. Fireworks lit up the Mumbai sky as captain Harmanpreet Kaur and her team celebrated an unforgettable triumph in front of a packed home crowd.
Put into bat after a rain delay, India posted a strong 298/7 in 50 overs, powered by half-centuries from Shafali Verma (87 off 91) and Deepti Sharma (58 off 58). The opening partnership between Smriti Mandhana (45) and Verma laid the foundation with a brisk 104-run stand. Despite quick wickets in the middle overs, India’s lower order ensured a competitive total on the board.
In reply, South Africa Women started confidently, led by Laura Wolvaardt’s fighting century, but regular breakthroughs kept India ahead. Deepti Sharma starred with the ball too, claiming key wickets — including Wolvaardt and de Klerk — as South Africa were bowled out for 246 in 45.3 overs.
The winning moment came when de Klerk’s mistimed shot was safely pouched by Harmanpreet Kaur at cover, sparking scenes of jubilation.
India, runners-up in 2005 and 2017, finally went the distance in their third World Cup final, etching their name in cricketing history.
💬 “The cup is coming home!” echoed across the stadium as the Women in Blue lifted the coveted trophy for the first time.
Final Score:
🇮🇳 India Women 298/7 (50 overs)
🇿🇦 South Africa Women 246 (45.3 overs)
➡️ India won by 52 runs
