India made history yesterday by claiming their first-ever ICC Women’s ODI World Cup title, defeating South Africa by 52 runs in the 2025 final.
Batting first, India posted an impressive 298 for 7, led by Shafali Verma’s brilliant 87, Deepti Sharma’s 58, and Smriti Mandhana’s solid 45.
For South Africa, Ayabonga Khaka took 3 wickets and kept India in check during the middle overs.
In reply, South Africa’s chase revolved around their captain Laura Wolvaardt, who struck a magnificent 101 runs — her second consecutive century after the semifinal. She also became the first player ever to score centuries in both a World Cup semifinal and final.
However, with little support from the other end, South Africa fell short once again, bowled out and leaving the dream unfulfilled.
Deepti Sharma was the game-changer, claiming 5 wickets, becoming the first bowler in a Women’s World Cup final to take more than 4 wickets. Shafali Verma also contributed with 2 crucial wickets.
This marks India’s maiden Women’s World Cup victory, having previously been runners-up twice. It’s also a historic first for any Asian team to win the Women’s ODI World Cup.
Player of the Match: Shafali Verma
Player of the Tournament: Deepti Sharma
