The date, November 2, 2025, will forever be etched in the annals of Indian sports history. The Indian women’s cricket team achieved an unprecedented milestone, securing their first-ever ODI World Cup by defeating South Africa by 52 runs in a captivating final held at the packed DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.
A standout performance came from the dynamic 21-year-old Shafali Verma, who, despite being a recent inclusion from the reserves, delivered a breathtaking 87 runs. Her crucial batting, combined with two vital wickets, played a pivotal role in setting India’s formidable total of 298 for 7, ultimately restricting the Proteas Women to 246.
The victory was a collective effort, with veteran Deepti Sharma’s exceptional spell yielding 5 wickets for just 39 runs, and the promising young Shree Charani contributing with 1 wicket for 48 runs under immense pressure. These performances culminated in a truly unforgettable day for women’s cricket in India.
Drawing parallels with June 25, 1983, when Kapil’s ‘Devils’ famously conquered the mighty West Indies at Lord’s, this November 2, 2025, triumph is set to become a seminal moment for the women’s cricket movement, signaling a new dawn for the sport.
Indian men’s captain Rohit Sharma, still recalling the painful memory of November 19, 2023, watched anxiously from the stands, hoping captain Harmanpreet Kaur and her squad would avoid a similar fate. Harmanpreet, a figure synonymous with the growth of Indian women’s cricket, understands the sting of a final loss from eight years prior. This time, her team ensured her dreams were realized.
The moment Harmanpreet secured Nadine de Klerk’s catch at extra cover, former cricketer Ian Bishop’s commentary perfectly encapsulated the scene: ‘inspiring generations.’ The atmosphere was further elevated by A.R. Rahman’s ‘Vande Mataram’ resonating powerfully throughout the stadium, adding a poetic touch to the historic achievement.
On the opposing side, Laura Wolvaardt fought valiantly, scoring a magnificent 101 off 98 balls, showcasing the competitive spirit of the South African team.
For head coach Amol Muzumdar, a ‘nearly man’ of Indian cricket who, despite his immense talent, never played for the national team, this global triumph offers a profound healing. Leading the women’s team to a World Cup victory is undoubtedly a deeply satisfying achievement.
This is far more than just another trophy; its profound societal impact will likely be fully appreciated decades from now. These eleven extraordinary women, led by their inspiring captain, have transformed into more than just role models. They are a shining beacon of hope for every aspiring girl in India, from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, encouraging them to pick up a bat or ball and understand that with dedication, the sky is truly the limit.