India Wins Maiden ICC Women's World Cup, Beating South Africa by 52 Runs
India claimed their first Women's World Cup title by defeating South Africa by 52 runs in a rain-delayed final at Navi Mumbai. Batting first, India posted 298-7, led by Shafali Verma's 87 and Deepti Sharma's all-round brilliance (58 runs, 5-39 wickets). Despite a valiant century by South Africa's Laura Wolvaardt, India's disciplined bowling and fielding secured a historic victory in front of a passionate home crowd.
In a landmark achievement for Indian women's cricket, the hosts triumphed over South Africa by 52 runs to win their first-ever ICC Women's World Cup. The final, played before a sold-out, energetic crowd at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, began two hours late due to rain but proceeded without loss of overs. India, batting first, set a challenging target of 298-7 in 50 overs, thanks largely to a dynamic 87 from opener Shafali Verma—who was a late addition to the squad—and a composed 58 from all-rounder Deepti Sharma. South Africa's chase was anchored by captain Laura Wolvaardt's flawless 101, but her dismissal via a spectacular catch by Amanjot Kaur off Deepti's bowling in the 42nd over turned the tide decisively in India's favor. Deepti Sharma, the tournament's leading wicket-taker, dismantled the Proteas' batting lineup with figures of 5-39. Despite a spirited effort, South Africa were bowled out for 246 in 45.3 overs, marking their third consecutive defeat in a global final. The victory capped a remarkable turnaround for India, who had struggled in the group stage but found form when it mattered most. The match was characterized by India's fearless batting, South Africa's costly dropped catches, and a nail-biting finish that kept fans enthralled until the last ball, symbolizing a new era for women's cricket in India.
