Women’s ODI World Cup: Team India Creates History: Wins Maiden Women’s ODI World Cup Title
In a moment that will be etched forever in Indian cricket history, Team India has been crowned Women’s ODI World Cup Champions for the first time in 52 years, defeating South Africa in a thrilling final. The historic victory marks a monumental achievement for Indian women’s cricket, showcasing determination, teamwork, and world-class performance on the grandest stage.
India’s Triumph in the Final
Batting first in the World Cup 2025 final, India posted an impressive 298 runs for the loss of seven wickets in 50 overs. Their innings was a mix of solid partnerships, calculated aggression, and brilliant stroke play. The young and dynamic Shafali Verma set the tone with a blistering knock of 87 runs, while Deepti Sharma played a crucial all-round role, contributing 58 valuable runs before creating magic with the ball later in the match.
Smriti Mandhana provided a steady start with her elegant 45-run innings, while Richa Ghosh added crucial late runs with a fiery 34 off just 24 balls, helping India get close to the 300-run mark. Jemimah Rodrigues (24), Harmanpreet Kaur (20), and Amanjot Kaur (12) also chipped in to maintain momentum. Though the Indian middle order faltered slightly in the later overs, their total of 298 turned out to be the second-highest in a Women’s ODI World Cup final and the highest ever by India in a title clash.
For South Africa, Ayabonga Khaka was the pick of the bowlers, claiming three wickets, while Mlaba, de Klerk, and Chloe Tryon managed one wicket each.
South Africa’s Chase Falls Short
Chasing a challenging target of 299 runs, South Africa struggled to build momentum as Indian bowlers kept taking wickets at regular intervals. Captain Laura Wolvaardt led from the front with a magnificent 101 off 98 balls, hitting 11 boundaries and one six, but found little support from the other end.
Tazmin Brits (23) and Sune Luus (25) made small contributions, but none of the other batters could stand firm against India’s disciplined bowling attack. Marizanne Kapp (4), Chloe Tryon (9), and Sinalo Jafta (16) failed to convert their starts, while Dirksen (35) and de Klerk (18) tried to revive the innings towards the end, but it was too late.
India’s bowlers, led by the ever-reliable Deepti Sharma, dismantled South Africa’s batting lineup. Deepti’s spell of 4 wickets for just 37 runs completely turned the match in India’s favor. She was well supported by Shafali Verma, who added two wickets to her outstanding all-round performance, and Sri Charani, who bowled a tight spell and claimed one wicket.
South Africa was eventually bowled out for 246 runs in 45.3 overs, handing India a 52-run victory and their first-ever Women’s ODI World Cup title.
A Historic Moment for Indian Women’s Cricket
This triumph is nothing short of a dream come true for millions of fans. Since the inception of the Women’s ODI World Cup in 1973, India had come close several times but never crossed the final hurdle—until now. The 2025 victory not only ends the long wait for glory but also marks the beginning of a new era for women’s cricket in India.
The entire squad showcased remarkable skill, unity, and resilience throughout the tournament. From Shafali’s aggressive starts to Deepti’s all-round brilliance and Harmanpreet’s inspiring leadership, every player played their part in making this historic win possible.
Player of the Match & Celebration
For her outstanding all-round performance—a half-century with the bat and two crucial wickets—Shafali Verma was named the Player of the Match. Her fearless batting and crucial breakthroughs with the ball made her the star of the final.
As the winning moment unfolded, emotions ran high. The entire Indian dugout erupted in joy, waving the tricolor proudly as chants of “India, India!” echoed across the stadium. This victory symbolizes not only sporting excellence but also the growing power and potential of women’s cricket in India.
In Conclusion
Team India’s victory in the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup is more than just a win—it’s a statement of dominance, resilience, and belief. After 52 years of waiting, the Indian women’s cricket team has finally reached the pinnacle of world cricket, inspiring countless young girls to dream big and believe that anything is possible.