In a historic night for Indian cricket, India Women beat South Africa Women by 52 runs to lift the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 trophy at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai. India posted a commanding 298/7 in their 50 overs before bowling out South Africa for 246 runs in 45.3 overs.
This triumph marks India Women’s first-ever World Cup win, ending years of heartbreak and near misses in previous editions.
Dominant Batting Display by India
India’s decision to bat first proved decisive. Shafali Verma played a blistering knock of 87 runs off 78 balls, hitting seven fours and two sixes. Her aggressive intent early in the innings set the tone for India’s commanding total. Partner Smriti Mandhana contributed a fluent 45 off 58 balls, anchoring a strong 104-run opening stand.
The middle order kept the momentum going, with Deepti Sharma scoring a composed 58 off 58 and Richa Ghosh adding 34 off 24 in a quick-fire finish that lifted India close to the 300-run mark. India’s total of 298/7 became the second-highest score in a Women’s World Cup final, reflecting their dominance with the bat.
South Africa Fight but Fall Short
Chasing 299 was always a challenge, and South Africa’s innings started under pressure after early breakthroughs from the Indian bowlers. However, captain Laura Wolvaardt stood tall with a valiant 101 off 98 balls, including 11 fours and a six, keeping South Africa’s hopes alive deep into the match.
Unfortunately for the Proteas, wickets fell at crucial moments, and none of the middle-order batters could provide consistent support. India’s bowlers tightened control as the run rate climbed, eventually bowling South Africa out for 246 in 45.3 overs.
Star Performers for India
- Shafali Verma (87 off 78): Set up the innings with attacking flair.
- Smriti Mandhana (45 off 58): Provided stability at the top.
- Deepti Sharma (58 off 58): Key middle-order contribution.
- Richa Ghosh (34 off 24): Late-innings acceleration.
- Deepti Sharma & Bowlers: Crucial wickets at vital stages.
A New Era for Indian Women’s Cricket
This victory signifies a new chapter for Indian women’s cricket. Having fallen short in the 2017 and 2022 finals, this generation of players showcased composure, intent, and belief under pressure. The win cements India’s position as a powerhouse in women’s cricket and brings home a long-awaited trophy.
The crowd at DY Patil Stadium witnessed an emotional celebration as captain Harmanpreet Kaur lifted the trophy amidst loud cheers. The win is expected to inspire a new wave of interest in women’s cricket across India.
South Africa’s Historic Run Ends in Heartbreak
Despite the loss, South Africa Women can take pride in reaching their first-ever World Cup final, a milestone that underscores their steady rise in international cricket. Their consistent performances throughout the tournament showed immense growth, unity, and resilience. Laura Wolvaardt’s century will remain one of the standout performances of the campaign, symbolizing the rise of South African women’s cricket.
Players like Marizanne Kapp, Sune Luus, and Ayabonga Khaka also played crucial roles in guiding the team through tight matches against England and Australia, proving their ability to compete with the world’s best. Though they fell short in the final, their journey has laid a strong foundation for the future, inspiring young cricketers across South Africa to dream bigger and aim higher.
Looking Ahead
India’s focus now shifts to sustaining this form in upcoming bilateral series and the next ICC cycle. For South Africa, the final heartbreak will serve as motivation to return stronger in 2029.
The Women’s World Cup 2025 final will be remembered not only for India’s maiden triumph but also for the high quality of cricket displayed throughout the tournament.
Sources: ESPN Cricinfo, ICC, for more sports updates check out FFR Sports
