Indias Dream Fulfilled at the Womens Cricket World Cup

Rain delayed the start for two hours at DY Patil Stadium, but India’s batters showed no fear once play began. The opening pair of Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana gave India a flying start, adding 58 runs in just eight overs. Shafali’s fearless strokeplay and Mandhana’s elegant cover drives provided a strong foundation.

In the middle overs, South Africa’s disciplined bowling slowed things down, but Shafali kept the innings alive almost single-handedly. She scored a magnificent 87 off nine fours and a six before getting dismissed. Though the middle order couldn’t convert their starts into big scores, India’s total remained competitive.

Towards the end, Deepti Sharma took charge with calm and maturity. Her composed 58-run knock pushed India to a solid 298 total, supported by Richa Ghosh’s quickfire 34. Despite a late fightback from South Africa’s bowlers, the total was enough to keep India ahead.

Chasing 299, South Africa started cautiously through Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits. However, after Brits was run out on 51, their middle order collapsed under pressure. Wolvaardt fought valiantly with a 101 off 98 balls, but lacked support from the other end.

The turning point came with Deepti Sharma’s brilliant bowling spell — she claimed 5 wickets in 9.3 overs, while Shafali chipped in with two more. South Africa were bowled out for 246, handing India a 52-run victory.

It was a perfect blend of Shafali’s aggression and Deepti’s composure that scripted India’s triumph.

As Harmanpreet Kaur lifted the trophy, chants of “Chak De India!” echoed through the stadium.

This victory was more than just a match win — it marked the dawn of a new chapter in Indian women’s cricket. 🇮🇳🏆