India Women scripted history by clinching their maiden ICC Women’s World Cup title, defeating South Africa by 52 runs in a thrilling final at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy on Sunday night. The victory was powered by Deepti Sharma’s stellar all-round performance — a composed half-century and a sensational five-wicket haul that anchored India’s triumph.

Deepti’s 58 off 58 balls steadied India’s innings in the middle overs, while her fiery spell with the ball dismantled South Africa’s chase. The 2025 win marked redemption for India, who had fallen short in two previous finals — against Australia in 2005 and England in 2017.

After rain delayed the start, South Africa opted to bowl first. India’s openers Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana provided a flying start, stitching together a 104-run partnership. Player of the Match Shafali smashed 87 off 78 balls, hitting seven fours and two massive sixes. Her fluent strokeplay and aggressive intent set the tone before she was caught by Sune Luus at mid-off.

Deepti then took charge alongside skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, adding 52 crucial runs for the fifth wicket. She reached her fifty with finesse, playing a mix of classy drives and powerful shots, including a six over deep mid-wicket off Marizanne Kapp. With 15 extras added, India posted a commanding 298/7 in 50 overs.

With the ball, Shafali continued to shine, removing Marizanne Kapp (4) and Sune Luus in quick succession to break South Africa’s rhythm. Her double strike earned her the tag of India’s “golden arm.”

Chasing 299, South Africa’s captain Laura Wolvaardt fought valiantly with a brilliant 101 off 98 balls — becoming only the second batter after Alyssa Healy (2022) to score centuries in both a semifinal and a final in the same World Cup edition. Tazmin Brits (23) and Annerie Dercksen (35) offered brief resistance, but India’s disciplined attack proved too strong.

Deepti Sharma turned the game decisively, claiming the wickets of Sinalo Jafta, Dercksen, Wolvaardt, Tryon, and Nadine de Klerk. The final blow came in the 46th over when Harmanpreet Kaur took a stunning catch at extra cover, sealing South Africa’s fate and sparking jubilant celebrations.



As fireworks illuminated the Navi Mumbai sky, the Indian players celebrated an emotional, hard-fought victory — a moment symbolizing years of perseverance and growth in women’s cricket. Deepti’s all-round brilliance, backed by Shafali’s heroics, highlighted India’s depth, determination, and balance — ushering in a new era for Indian women’s cricket.