Indian women’s cricket is on the cusp of a truly historic achievement, echoing the nation’s iconic 1983 Men’s World Cup victory. The Harmanpreet Kaur-led squad is poised to break its long-standing ICC trophy drought as they prepare to face a formidable South African team in the Women’s World Cup final this Sunday, November 2, 2025.
Both captains, Harmanpreet Kaur for India and Laura Wolvaardt for South Africa, have expressed a unified approach: enter this high-stakes game without the burden of past results. India previously lost to South Africa in the league stage, a match where Nadine de Klerk delivered a blistering performance. This and a subsequent loss to England highlighted the Indian side’s challenge in consistently closing out matches, even when in commanding positions.
The final will be held at the DY Patil Stadium, a venue renowned for its high-scoring matches and the potential influence of evening dew. These conditions suggest another thrilling, high-scoring encounter, which will rigorously test India’s fielding precision and bowling strategy.
Match day has arrived, and the anticipation is palpable. Just yesterday, Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur shared her unique experience of dealing with “pressure” – not just from the match itself, but from the overwhelming demand for World Cup final tickets. She views this as a positive indicator of the sport’s growing popularity and impact.
As the “Women in Blue” aim for ultimate glory, they are met by a determined Proteas squad. The battle for the trophy is set to captivate cricket fans worldwide.
Squads for the Final Clash:
India: Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Smriti Mandhana (vc), Richa Ghosh (wk), Uma Chetry (wk), Jemimah Rodrigues, Harleen Deol, Shafali Verma, Amanjot Kaur, Deepti Sharma, Sneh Rana, Kranti Gaud, Renuka Singh Thakur, Shree Charani, Arundhati Reddy, Radha Yadav.
South Africa: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tazmin Brits, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Karabo Meso (wk), Anneke Bosch, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Marizanne Kapp, Sune Luus, Nondumiso Shangase, Chloe Tryon, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Tumi Sekhukhune.
The match is scheduled to begin at 3:00 p.m. IST.