India Clinch Historic First-Ever ICC Women’s World Cup Title

• India scripted history at the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 final in Mumbai, defeating South Africa by 52 runs to claim their maiden world title. Under the leadership of Harmanpreet Kaur, the Indian women’s team showcased dominance, resilience, and composure, marking a landmark moment in the evolution of Indian women’s cricket.

Explosive Batting Performance at DY Patil Stadium

• After a rain-delayed start, South Africa won the toss and opted to field. India’s openers, Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana, gave a dream start with a 104-run partnership. Shafali smashed 87 off 78 balls, hitting seven fours and two sixes, while Mandhana added 45. Despite quick middle-order dismissals, Deepti Sharma anchored the innings with a well-paced 58 off 58 balls. Richa Ghosh contributed a brisk 34 off 24 deliveries as India finished with 298/7 in 50 overs—the second-highest total in the history of the Women’s World Cup finals.

South Africa’s Chase and India’s Bowling Brilliance

• Chasing 299, South Africa began steadily but struggled against disciplined Indian bowling. Skipper Laura Wolvaardt led from the front with a magnificent 101 off 97 balls, but once she fell to Deepti Sharma, the chase lost momentum. Shafali Verma’s spin proved vital as she removed key batters, while Deepti’s 4/46 spell broke South Africa’s middle order. The Proteas were eventually bowled out for 246 in 45 overs, handing India a memorable 52-run victory.

Star Performers and Awards

• Deepti Sharma was named Player of the Match for her all-round brilliance—58 runs and 4 wickets, including the crucial dismissal of Wolvaardt. Shafali Verma’s explosive 87 and two wickets underlined her stature as one of the brightest stars in world cricket. Together, their performances symbolised India’s growing strength and balance across departments.

Exam- Facts

• Event: ICC Women’s World Cup Final 2025, Mumbai (DY Patil Stadium)

• Result: India beat South Africa by 52 runs

• Key Players: Shafali Verma (87 runs, 2 wickets), Deepti Sharma (58 runs, 4/46)

• South Africa: Laura Wolvaardt (101 runs)

• Captain: Harmanpreet Kaur

• Achievement: India’s first-ever Women’s World Cup title