Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday felicitated cricketers Smriti Mandhana Jemimah Rodrigues and Radha Yadav Indian Women’s World Cup-winning team members from the state and presented them with Rs 2.25 crore cash reward each in Mumbai. During the felicitation programme held at the CM’s official residence ‘Varsha’ in south Mumbai Fadnavis called the trio the ‘pride of Maharashtra’ and said the team’s victory will inspire young girls to take up sports and shine on global platforms. The Harmanpreet Kaur-led side scripted a defining moment for Indian womens cricket by winning its maiden global title - the 50-over World Cup - with a 52-run victory over South Africa in the final in Navi Mumbai on Sunday. Fadnavis said “Youve made Maharashtra proud. Your victory has brought immense joy to the state. Jemimahs century in the semifinal was a turning point it took us to the finals. The way this team fought back and played like a family shows what true teamwork means.” WATCH Smriti Mandhana felicitated by Maharashtra Chief Minister HERE…   VIDEO | Mumbai: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar felicitate World Cup champions Smriti Mandhana Jemimah Rodrigues and Radha Yadav. (Full video available on PTI Videos – https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/BGrBvYcazZ — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) November 7 2025 “The world has taken note of the fact that the World Cup which traditionally went to a select group of countries has for the first time come to India. It is a matter of immense pride. The entire team has performed brilliantly” he said. Lauding the spirit of camaraderie among the players he said team spirit and bonding were the key to the squad’s success. “In professional cricket victory is not possible without support. The role of the coach support staff and guides is equally crucial” he added. Fadnavis also acknowledged Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC) Jay Shah for his efforts in advancing womens cricket. Cricket team’s coach Amol Muzumdar was presented a cheque of Rs 22.5 lakh while each member of the support staff was given Rs 11 lakh. Bowling coach Avishkar Salvi former legendary cricketer Diana Edulji analyst Aniruddha Deshpande logistics coordinator Aparna Gambhirrao and support staff members Mihir Upadhyay Poorva Kate and Mamta Shirurulla were present. Speaking on the occasion vice captain Smriti Mandhana expressed gratitude to the people of the state and acknowledged the role of the support system behind the teams success. “Thank you for inviting and felicitating us and that too in Mumbai which makes it even more special. Maharashtra has always supported us. In 2017 too we were felicitated when we were runner ups. Many of our support staff belong to this state. This victory wouldnt have been possible without their hard work” she said. Left arm spinner Radha Yadav said it was for the first time that she was felicitated like this. “I feel really proud and grateful to everyone who supported me” she said. Rodrigues said “Our biggest goal now is to leave the game in a better place for the next generation. The smile on my parents faces means more than anything else.”