India lifted their first-ever ICC Women’s World Cup trophy after a commanding 52-run victory over South Africa in a thrilling final at Navi Mumbai’s DY Patil Stadium on Sunday night. A complete team performance sealed the historic triumph before an electrified home crowd.

Batting first, India posted an impressive 298/7 — the second-highest total in a Women’s World Cup final. Openers Smriti Mandhana (45) and Shafali Verma (87) provided a strong 100-run stand, setting the tone for the innings. Deepti Sharma anchored the middle order with a steady 58, while Richa Ghosh’s brisk 34 helped India approach the 300-run mark.

In response, South Africa began confidently with a fifty-run opening stand between Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits. However, a direct hit from Amanjot Kaur ran out Brits, triggering a crucial breakthrough. Wolvaardt continued her fine form with a determined century (101 off 111 balls), but the rest of the batting order crumbled under pressure.

Deepti Sharma led India’s bowling charge, claiming a brilliant 5 for 39, while Shafali Verma’s double strike — dismissing Sune Luus and Marizanne Kapp in quick succession — turned the match decisively in India’s favor. South Africa were bowled out for 246 in 45.3 overs, despite Nadine de Klerk’s late resistance.

With this victory, India scripted a golden chapter in women’s cricket, showcasing depth, determination, and all-round brilliance. The win also marks a new era for Indian women’s cricket on the global stage.

Brief Scores:
India 298/7 (Shafali Verma 87, Deepti Sharma 58; Ayabonga Khaka 3/58)
South Africa 246 (Laura Wolvaardt 101; Deepti Sharma 5/39)
India won by 52 runs.