Historic Triumph: India Lift Maiden Women’s World Cup

Deepti Sharma shines with five wickets and a crucial fifty as South Africa fall short by 52 runs

Ray Sportz Web Desk: India scripted history at the DY Patil Stadium on Sunday, defeating South Africa by 52 runs to win their first-ever ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup. It was a night of emotion and redemption as the Indian women, after years of heartbreak, finally claimed the title they had long chased.
Batting first, India posted a commanding 298 for seven, built around a brilliant 87 from Shafali Verma, a composed 58 from Deepti Sharma, and a fluent 45 from Smriti Mandhana. The trio ensured India maintained steady momentum despite tight spells from Ayabonga Khaka and Marizanne Kapp.

South Africa began their chase confidently through captain Laura Wolvaardt’s elegant 61, but the Indian bowlers struck back in style. Deepti Sharma produced a spell of pure brilliance, claiming five wickets for just 39 runs and turning the match decisively in India’s favour. South Africa were bowled out for 246 in 45.3 overs, falling short despite their promising start.
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur, visibly emotional after the win, called it “a victory for every Indian girl who dreams of playing cricket.” The stadium erupted as the players celebrated a triumph decades in the making, lifting the trophy amid fireworks and thunderous applause.
Deepti Sharma, who starred with both bat and ball, was named Player of the Match and Player of the Tournament, capping a glorious campaign for India.