India women’s cricket team made history by defeating South Africa by 52 runs in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 final at DY Patil Stadium. Shafali Verma’s fiery 87 and Deepti Sharma’s magical 5/39 powered India to their first-ever world title.

Introduction

The night of November 2, 2025, will forever be remembered as a golden chapter in Indian sports history. Under the floodlights of DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai, the Indian women’s cricket team conquered the world by clinching their first-ever ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup title.

For decades, Indian women’s cricket has been chasing this dream. They came close in 2005 and again in 2017 but destiny had other plans back then. Yesterday, that unfinished story finally found its perfect ending.

The Stage Was Set

South Africa, the other finalist, entered the match in brilliant form. Their captain, Laura Wolvaardt, was the tournament’s highest run-scorer, while their bowling attack had been consistent throughout.

India, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, chose to bat first after winning the toss. The pitch looked balanced—offering bounce for fast bowlers and grip for spinners later on. With thousands of fans waving tricolour flags, the stadium echoed with chants of “India! India!” even before the first ball was bowled.

India’s Fiery Start with the Bat

Opening the innings, Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma gave India the perfect start. Mandhana looked elegant as ever, timing the ball beautifully through the covers, while Shafali brought her trademark aggression.

The pair added 104 runs for the first wicket in just 15 overs, completely dominating the South African pacers. Mandhana’s stylish 56 laid a solid foundation before she was caught at mid-wicket.

But the real star was Shafali Verma, who played one of the best innings of her career. Her 87 runs came off 69 balls, including 10 boundaries and 3 massive sixes. Every shot she played carried intent be it a flick, a pull, or a loft over extra cover.

Deepti Sharma and the Middle Order Show Stability

After Shafali’s departure, Deepti Sharma and Harmanpreet Kaur steadied the innings. Deepti played a responsible knock, rotating the strike while punishing loose balls. Harmanpreet, though not at her explosive best, anchored the innings sensibly.

The duo stitched together a 74-run partnership before Kaur fell for 34. Deepti continued the momentum and completed her fifty off 61 balls.

With some late fireworks from Richa Ghosh (29 off 18) and Pooja Vastrakar (22 off 12), India finished strong at 298/7 in 50 overs a competitive total in a pressure final.

South Africa’s Chase: A Tale of Promise and Collapse

Chasing 299 in a World Cup final is never easy. Still, the South African openers began confidently. Laura Wolvaardt led from the front, showcasing impeccable timing and patience. She found able support in Tazmin Brits, and together they added 82 runs before the first breakthrough.

That breakthrough came from none other than Shafali Verma, who trapped Brits for 38. From there, India began clawing back into the game.

Wolvaardt fought bravely, reaching her century off 113 balls. But just when South Africa seemed to be gaining momentum at 200/5, Deepti Sharma turned the match completely on its head.

Deepti Sharma’s Magical Spell

Deepti’s performance will be remembered as one of the most decisive bowling spells in women’s cricket history. She first dismissed the dangerous Marizanne Kapp, then struck twice in one over to remove both the middle-order anchors.

Her control, accuracy, and clever variations made it nearly impossible for South African batters to score freely. Deepti finished with 5 wickets for 39 runs in 9 overs, completely dismantling the chase.

From 209/5, South Africa collapsed to 246 all out. India won by 52 runs, and the entire stadium erupted in joy. Tears, laughter, and pride filled the air.

Key Turning Points of the Match

1. Shafali Verma’s Powerplay Assault
   Her fearless hitting in the first 10 overs forced South Africa on the back foot early and gave India the upper hand.

2. Deepti’s All-Round Brilliance
   A composed 58 with the bat and a five-wicket haul with the ball made her the undisputed Player of the Match.

3. Harmanpreet Kaur’s Captaincy
   Her calm decision-making, especially in bowling changes, kept the pressure on South Africa throughout the chase.

4. Crucial Catch in the Deep
   In the 45th over, when Wolvaardt mistimed a lofted shot, Harmanpreet ran backwards to take a stunning catch. That was the moment India’s victory became inevitable.

Celebrations and Emotions

As soon as the final wicket fell, every Indian player sprinted toward the center. Some cried, some hugged each other, and a few simply stood in disbelief. For veterans like Harmanpreet Kaur and Jhulan Goswami (now mentor), it was an emotional moment they had dreamt of this day for years.

Shafali Verma was named Player of the Tournament for her consistent explosive batting, while Deepti Sharma won Player of the Final for her match-winning all-round performance.

In the post-match ceremony, Harmanpreet said,

“This is not just a trophy it’s a message. A message to every young girl in India that dreams do come true if you never stop believing.”

What This Victory Means for India

This win is much bigger than cricket. It’s a milestone for women’s sports in India. For decades, female athletes have fought for recognition, facilities, and equal opportunities.

The triumph of the Women in Blue has now broken that barrier. It will inspire countless young girls in schools and small towns to pick up a bat or a ball and dream big.

Sponsors, media, and the cricket board are already expected to boost investment in women’s cricket after this historic win. More importantly, it will push for equal pay, better infrastructure, and more visibility for the women’s game.

South Africa’s Gallant Effort

Though South Africa fell short, their performance deserves praise. They reached their first-ever World Cup final and played fearlessly. Laura Wolvaardt’s century in a losing cause showed her class and determination.

Their team spirit and professionalism will surely make them a formidable force in the coming years.

Looking Ahead: A New Era Begins

With this win, India’s women’s team has set a new standard. Young talents like Shafali Verma, Richa Ghosh, and Renuka Singh will now carry the torch forward. Veterans like Harmanpreet and Deepti have ensured that the legacy is strong and inspiring.

Cricket in India will never be the same again. The men’s team gave us 1983 and 2011. The women’s team has now given us 2025 a year that will forever shine in golden letters.

For info visit icc-cricket

Q&A

Q1. Who won the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 Final?

A1. The India Women’s Cricket Team won the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 Final by defeating South Africa Women by 52 runs at the DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai.

Q2. When and where was the final match played?

A2. The final was played on November 2, 2025, at the Dr. DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, India.

Q3. Who was the captain of the Indian women’s team in the 2025 World Cup?

A3. Harmanpreet Kaur was the captain of the Indian women’s cricket team during the 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup.

Q4. Who was declared the Player of the Match in the final?

A4. Deepti Sharma was named the Player of the Match for her all-round performance — scoring 58 runs and taking 5 wickets for 39 runs.

Q5. Who was named Player of the Tournament?

A5. Shafali Verma received the Player of the Tournament award for her consistent batting performances throughout the World Cup, including an 87-run knock in the final.

Q6. What was India’s total score in the final match?

A6. India scored 298 runs for 7 wickets in 50 overs, setting a target of 299 runs for South Africa.

Q7. How many runs did South Africa score in reply?

A7. South Africa were all out for 246 runs while chasing 299, losing the match by 52 runs.

Q8. Who was South Africa’s top performer in the final?

A8. Laura Wolvaardt, the South African captain, scored a brilliant 101 runs, but her team could not chase the target successfully.

Q9. What were the key moments that decided the match?

A9.

1. Shafali Verma’s explosive start in the powerplay.

2. Deepti Sharma’s steady batting in the middle overs.

3. Deepti’s five-wicket haul breaking South Africa’s middle order.

4. Harmanpreet Kaur’s strategic captaincy and her crucial catch in the deep.

Q10. What is the significance of this victory for Indian women’s cricket?

A10. This was India’s first-ever ICC Women’s World Cup title, marking a historic milestone. It symbolizes the rise of women’s cricket in India and inspires young girls to take up the sport seriously.

Q11. Who were the top performers for India in the 2025 World Cup final?

A11.

• Shafali Verma: 87 runs & 2 wickets

• Deepti Sharma: 58 runs & 5 wickets

• Harmanpreet Kaur: 34 runs & excellent captaincy

• Richa Ghosh: 29 off 18 balls (quick cameo)

Q12. How did the Indian team celebrate the victory?

A12. The players celebrated on the field with tears of joy, waving the national flag. Harmanpreet Kaur lifted the trophy as fireworks lit up the Mumbai sky, marking a proud moment for every Indian fan.

Q13. What’s next for the Indian women’s team after this win?

A13. After this historic win, the Indian women’s team will focus on building consistency, nurturing young talents, and preparing for upcoming ICC tournaments and the Women’s T20 World Cup in 2026.

Q14. Which bowler took the most wickets for India in the 2025 World Cup overall?

A14. Renuka Singh Thakur finished as India’s leading wicket-taker in the tournament, with Deepti Sharma following closely after her match-winning performance in the final.

Q15. What message did captain Harmanpreet Kaur give after the final?

A15. In her post-match speech, Harmanpreet said,

“This victory belongs to every girl who dreams of playing for India. Keep believing, because dreams do come true.”

Conclusion: A Dream Fulfilled

The 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup final wasn’t just a cricket match it was a story of courage, belief, and persistence. From the dusty grounds of Haryana to the packed stadium of Navi Mumbai, these women showed what true passion looks like.

Their 52-run victory over South Africa is not merely a statistic it’s a symbol of India’s rise in women’s sports.

Last night, the tricolour waved high not just for a win, but for every dream that once seemed impossible.

India are the World Champions, and the world is now watching them with pride

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