NEW DELHI: The sting of India’s men’s team’s 2023 World Cup final defeat to Australia is still fresh for many cricket enthusiasts. However, this time, the nation holds its breath, hoping for a different outcome as the women’s team, under the dynamic leadership of Harmanpreet Kaur, prepares to face South Africa in the ICC Women’s World Cup final on Sunday at the DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai.
This will mark the Indian women’s team’s third appearance in an ODI World Cup final. Their previous attempts ended in heartbreak, with losses to Australia by 98 runs in 1998 and a narrow nine-run defeat to England in 2017.
In a dramatic journey this World Cup, India secured their spot in the final by overcoming formidable seven-time champions Australia in a thrilling semifinal. Now, they face South Africa, a team making their historic debut in a Women’s World Cup final.
The big questions on everyone’s minds are: Can India finally break the final barrier? How will Harmanpreet Kaur handle the immense pressure? And will South Africa pose an easier challenge?
Former India captain Anjum Chopra is confident that Harmanpreet will rise to the occasion with ease, leading India to a triumphant victory.
“There’s no pressure on her. Every game comes with its own set of pressures. Harmanpreet is a senior player who understands the gravity of a World Cup final and the triumph of a semifinal. She’s a seasoned professional and a proven match-winner. The usual expectations and pressures of any international match are present, and she won’t feel any additional burden. Her sole focus will be on making this a memorable occasion for herself and for the country. I genuinely believe these girls will achieve remarkable success,” Anjum shared in an exclusive interview.
She further added, “My deepest wish is to see India lift the World Cup.”
However, Anjum also issued a word of caution against underestimating the South African side, commending their consistent performance in ICC tournaments.
“South Africa is no stranger to World Cup finals, having contested two T20 World Cup finals in 2023 and 2024. They are not new to this grand stage. While this is their first 50-over final, many of their players have been part of those T20 campaigns. They vividly remember what they missed out on then and how relentlessly they’ve fought to reach this point, especially after losing their opening game to England and suffering a dominant defeat against Australia. They are undoubtedly eager to correct their past mistakes and achieve a better outcome this time,” she explained.
In the semifinal clash, Jemimah Rodrigues delivered an extraordinary performance, scoring an unbeaten 127 runs that left seven-time champions Australia stunned and propelled India into the final. The stadium was filled with a mix of raw emotions—tears, smiles, and overwhelming joy—as Jemimah secured India’s place in the title decider.
“Jemimah’s innings was nothing short of spectacular, whether it was a World Cup semifinal, final, or even a league game. It was truly brilliant and a treat to witness. As Indians, our desire was to win that match, and she made it even more special. But even setting aside the significance of the occasion, her batsmanship, composure, and skill were simply delightful to watch. From my vantage point in the commentary box, and for everyone who watched globally, every aspect of that innings was amplified by the crucial moment and the caliber of the opposition. Her skill and temperament were absolutely outstanding. It was a pure joy to watch Jemimah play such an innings,” Anjum concluded.