NEW DELHI: India captain Harmanpreet Kaur had a memorable night, holding the coveted ICC World Cup trophy close. The Indian women’s cricket team etched its name in history by securing its first-ever World Cup title, triumphing over South Africa by 52 runs. This victory marked a golden chapter in the nation’s sporting achievements.
Beyond the win itself, Harmanpreet delivered a profound message through the words emblazoned on the back of her T-shirt. “Some dreams are shared by a billion people. That’s why cricket is everyone’s game,” she shared in a caption accompanying a picture of herself with the trophy.
The powerful statement on her shirt read, “Cricket is a gentleman’s EVERYONE’S game,” with the word ‘gentleman’s’ strikingly crossed out. This visual declaration underscored a significant shift in perspective.
Just as June 25, 1983, became a defining moment for Indian men’s cricket when Kapil’s Devils defeated the mighty West Indies at Lord’s, November 2, 2025, will forever be remembered as a pivotal day for women’s cricket in India.
Rohit Sharma, still recalling the heartbreak of November 19, 2023, watched the final from the stands, silently hoping that Harmanpreet Kaur would not face a similar fate.
For Harmanpreet, who has contributed immensely to Indian women’s cricket, the victory was profoundly emotional. She understood the pain of losing a final, having experienced it eight summers prior. This time, her team ensured history would be different.
As she skillfully caught Nadine de Klerk’s shot while backpedaling at extra cover, commentator Ian Bishop perfectly encapsulated the moment, describing it as “inspiring generations.” The scene was made even more poetic with A.R. Rahman’s stirring rendition of “Vande Mataram” echoing through the stands.