A spirited all-round performance powered India to their first-ever ICC Women’s World Cup triumph, as they defeated South Africa by 52 runs in a thrilling final at the DY Patil Stadium on Sunday night.
After setting a challenging target of 299, India’s bowlers — led by Deepti Sharma’s sensational five-wicket haul — ensured South Africa’s chase never fully took off. The Proteas were bowled out for 246 in 45.3 overs, despite captain Laura Wolvaardt’s valiant 101.
Wolvaardt’s dismissal in the 42nd over, followed quickly by Chloe Tryon’s wicket in the same over, ended South Africa’s hopes, with 78 still needed off the final eight overs. Nadine de Klerk fought hard down the order, but Deepti’s precision and consistency sealed the deal for the hosts in front of a jubilant home crowd.
Deepti Sharma (5/39) was the star of the bowling unit, while Shafali Verma chipped in crucially with two quick wickets, dismissing Sune Luus and Marizanne Kapp to turn the game firmly in India’s favour. Earlier, Sree Charani trapped Anneke Bosch LBW, and Amanjot Kaur’s sharp direct hit to remove Tazmin Brits gave India the breakthrough they needed after a brisk 50-run opening stand by the Proteas.
Earlier in the day, India posted an imposing 298/7 — the second-highest total ever in a Women’s World Cup final. Openers Smriti Mandhana (45) and Shafali Verma (87) provided a strong platform with a century stand. Deepti Sharma’s composed 54 and Richa Ghosh’s quickfire 34 added crucial runs in the middle and death overs.
For South Africa, Ayabonga Khaka (3/58) was the standout bowler, supported by Nadine de Klerk, Chloe Tryon, and Nonkululeko Mlaba, who claimed one wicket each.
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