The 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup final between India and South Africa at DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai, will be remembered as a historic moment in women’s cricket. India lifted their first-ever Women’s World Cup trophy after defeating South Africa by 52 runs, marking a defining chapter in Indian cricket history.
The Toss and the Start
South Africa won the toss and elected to field first, hoping to exploit early morning conditions. However, the Indian batters had other plans. Openers Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana gave India a strong start with aggressive stroke play and calculated risk-taking. Shafali’s dazzling 87 off 95 balls, laced with 7 fours and 2 sixes, set the tone for the innings. Mandhana supported her with a steady 45, ensuring the team didn’t lose early momentum.
Middle-Order Brilliance
After a brief stumble in the middle overs, Deepti Sharma anchored the innings with a composed 58-run knock, showing maturity and balance between defense and aggression. Harmanpreet Kaur’s quickfire 39 off 27 balls provided the finishing touches as India posted a competitive total of 298 for 7 in 50 overs.
The Indian innings was a perfect blend of aggression and discipline. Every batter contributed, ensuring South Africa faced a daunting chase on a turning pitch that started to slow down under the sun.
South Africa’s Chase
Chasing 299 in a World Cup final was always going to be challenging. South African captain Laura Wolvaardt led from the front with a stunning 101 off 110 balls, displaying remarkable patience and skill. However, the rest of the batting lineup struggled to build partnerships.
South Africa were eventually bowled out for 246 in 45.3 overs, falling short despite Wolvaardt’s heroics.
Turning Points
Shafali Verma’s early fireworks gave India the upper hand.
Deepti Sharma’s all-round performance (58 runs & 3 wickets) was crucial in turning the tide.
India’s fielding intensity — including a brilliant run-out by Jemimah Rodrigues — shifted the momentum decisively.
The Victory and Its Impact
As the final wicket fell, jubilation erupted across the stadium and millions of Indian fans watching around the world. Harmanpreet Kaur, with tears in her eyes, held the trophy high — a moment generations of Indian cricketers had dreamed of.
This victory not only brought glory to India but also symbolized the rising power and recognition of women’s cricket globally. The Indian team’s resilience, preparation, and teamwork were lauded by legends across the sport.
For South Africa, reaching the final itself was a proud achievement, showcasing their consistency and fighting spirit.
Conclusion
The 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup final wasn’t just about who won — it was about how far women’s cricket has come. India’s triumph will inspire millions of young girls across the nation to dream big and pick up the bat and ball. It was more than a victory; it was a celebration of courage, determination, and belief.