In a thrilling Women’s World Cup final, Amanjot Kaur delivered a moment that will be etched in history. Her spectacular catch to dismiss South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt proved to be the pivotal turning point, ultimately securing India’s maiden title and igniting widespread celebrations at the DY Patil Stadium.
The crucial moment unfolded in the 42nd over when Wolvaardt, batting brilliantly on 101, mistimed a shot towards deep mid-wicket. Amanjot, demonstrating incredible composure, juggled the ball twice before finally securing it, unleashing a wave of relief and pure joy among the players and fans alike. Earlier in the match, she had also executed a sharp run-out to dismiss Tazmin Brits, providing India with their crucial first breakthrough.
Reflecting on the monumental win, fielding coach Munish Bali addressed the team, expressing immense pride. “Thank you so much for making us proud. Thank you so much for giving us a chance to wear this t-shirt. Champions! Let’s go ladies,” Bali enthusiastically shared in a video released by the BCCI.
Teammate Jemimah Rodrigues was quick to laud Amanjot’s extraordinary brilliance, acknowledging its game-changing impact. “So girls, we talk about special moments… there are some moments in a game that change lives forever and that moment has changed our lives forever — and that is today, Amanjot,” she declared. “You just didn’t catch that catch, you caught the World Cup.”
Bali then went on to highlight Smriti Mandhana’s outstanding contribution in the field, revealing that she had topped the team’s leaderboard. “Smriti Mandhana is at the top with eight catches, no errors. We win on the outfield. Well done, Smriti,” he proudly announced.
This commendation sparked a genuinely funny and light-hearted reaction from Jemimah Rodrigues. She playfully interjected, asking the coach, in Hindi, “one minute sir, kya mai aur Radha chana kha rahe the?” (one minute sir, were Radha and I just eating chickpeas?), causing her teammates to erupt in laughter at her perfectly timed, relatable protest.
India’s impressive 52-run victory was a testament to exceptional all-round team performance. Deepti Sharma shone with a five-wicket haul (5/39) and a crucial half-century (58), Shafali Verma delivered a powerful 87, and the team’s sharp fielding consistently put South Africa under pressure. Despite Wolvaardt’s century, India successfully restricted the visitors to 246 in 45.3 overs, clinching their first-ever Women’s World Cup title.