NAVI MUMBAI: A spirited all-round performance powered India to their first-ever ICC Women’s World Cup title, as they defeated South Africa by 52 runs in a thrilling final at the DY Patil Stadium on Sunday night.
Defending a total of 298/7, India bowled out South Africa for 246 in 45.3 overs. Deepti Sharma starred with a match-winning spell of 5 for 39, while Shafali Verma claimed two key wickets, including those of Sune Luus and Marizanne Kapp, to shift the momentum India’s way. South Africa’s captain Laura Wolvaardt fought valiantly with a superb century, but her dismissal in the 42nd over dashed the visitors’ hopes. Nadine de Klerk’s late resistance wasn’t enough as India sealed a historic win before a jubilant home crowd.
Earlier, India’s batters delivered a commanding performance, led by Shafali Verma’s fluent 87 and Deepti Sharma’s composed 58. A strong 100-run opening stand between Smriti Mandhana (45) and Verma set the tone, while Richa Ghosh’s quick-fire 34 provided a late flourish. For South Africa, Ayabonga Khaka impressed with figures of 3 for 58.
The victory marked a watershed moment for Indian women’s cricket, ending a long wait for a world title and cementing India’s place among global cricketing powerhouses.