The DY Patil Stadium roared with pride as Team India lifted the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, defeating South Africa by 52 runs in a thrilling finale that showcased skill, resilience, and emotion.
At the heart of this victory stood Deepti Sharma, whose extraordinary five-wicket haul scripted one of Indian cricket’s most iconic moments.
India’s Batting Brilliance Sets the Stage
Batting first, the “Women in Blue” displayed composure and class. Shafali Verma fired early with a spectacular 87 off 78 balls, setting the tone for India’s innings with power-packed boundaries and confident stroke play.
Deepti Sharma, who later became the match hero with the ball, contributed crucially with the bat as well — scoring a composed 58 runs off 58 balls.
Wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh added fireworks with her quick 34 off 24 balls, featuring three fours and two sixes, helping India reach a formidable total of 298/7.
For South Africa, Ayabonga Khaka stood out, claiming three wickets for 58 runs, while Nonkululeko Mlaba, Nadine de Klerk, and Chloe Tryon chipped in with one wicket each.
Deepti Sharma Destroys Proteas’ Chase
Chasing 299, South Africa began with caution but faltered under mounting pressure.
Skipper Laura Wolvaardt fought valiantly with a captain’s knock of 101 off 98 balls, studded with 11 boundaries and a six. However, the rest of the lineup crumbled before India’s disciplined bowling attack.
Deepti Sharma’s spell was pure brilliance — 9.3 overs, 5 wickets, 39 runs — breaking South Africa’s rhythm and confidence. Her deliveries were a mix of sharp turn, flight, and unrelenting accuracy.
Shafali Verma, too, contributed with the ball, taking 2 wickets for 36 runs, while Nallapureddy Charani dismissed one batter.
The Proteas were eventually bowled out for 246 in 45.3 overs, sealing a famous 52-run victory for India.
A New Era for Women’s Cricket in India
This win marks India’s second Women’s ODI World Cup title and reinforces the team’s growing dominance on the global stage. Deepti Sharma’s all-round performance earned her the Player of the Match award, while tributes poured in across social media celebrating the grit and unity of the Indian side.
As the tricolor waved proudly over Navi Mumbai, the women who once played in the shadows of the men’s game proved they are now shining in their own light — powerful, fearless, and world champions once again.
