India lift first Women’s ODI World Cup title
HYDERABAD: India’s women cricketers made history on Sunday by winning their maiden ICC Women’s ODI World Cup, defeating South Africa by 52 runs in the final at DY Patil Stadium.
Led by Harmanpreet Kaur, the home team fulfilled a two-decade dream, having fallen short in the 2005 and 2017 finals. A packed Mumbai crowd celebrated as the women in blue lifted the trophy on home soil.
Shafali, Deepti shine in all-round show
After losing the toss, India posted 298 for seven in 50 overs. Opener Shafali Verma top-scored with 87 off 78 balls (7 fours, 2 sixes), while Deepti Sharma struck 58 off 58 (3 fours, 1 six) and later took five wickets for 39. Smriti Mandhana supported with a brisk 45 off 58 balls.
Shafali and Mandhana added 104 runs for the opening wicket, giving India a solid start. Later, Richa Ghosh’s quickfire 34 off 24 balls helped India cross the 290 mark. The officials declared Shafali Player of the Final, while they awarded Deepti Player of the Tournament honours for her consistent all-round performances.
South Africa falter despite Wolvaardt’s ton
In reply, South Africa were bowled out for 246 in 45.3 overs. Captain Laura Wolvaardt fought a lone battle with 101 off 98 balls (11 fours, 1 six), but lacked support from the other end. Deepti’s spin and Shafali’s part-time bowling broke key partnerships to seal India’s victory.
Fans turned the stadium into a sea of blue, roaring with every wicket. Harmanpreet’s catch at cover off Dee Klerk in the 48th over sealed the title a moment reminiscent of India’s 1983 men’s World Cup triumph.
A defining moment for women’s cricket
The triumph marks a turning point for Indian women’s cricket, expected to elevate its stature globally and inspire a new generation of players.
