India’s women’s cricket team won their first-ever ICC Women’s One Day International World Cup on Sunday night, defeating South Africa by 52 runs at the DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai.
Following the historic triumph, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a major cash reward of 51 crore rupees (approximately 70.4 crore Bangladeshi taka) for the players and support staff.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia praised the team’s achievement, saying, “This is a huge accomplishment that will help elevate women’s cricket in India.”
IPL chairman Arun Dhumal compared the team’s success to India’s iconic 1983 Men’s World Cup win. “Today, the Indian women have made history in Mumbai. This victory will empower women’s cricket in the country and take the game to new heights,” he said.
Batting first, India posted 298 for seven, with opener Shafali Verma scoring 87, Deepti Sharma adding 58, Smriti Mandhana making 45 and Richa Ghosh contributing 34. A century opening stand between Mandhana and Verma laid the foundation for India’s commanding total.
In reply, South Africa began steadily as Tazmin Brits and Laura Wolvaardt put on 50 runs for the opening wicket. However, a sharp throw from Amanjot Kaur ran out Brits, breaking the partnership and shifting momentum in India’s favour.
India’s bowlers then took control, with key spells from Shri Charani, Shafali Verma and Deepti Sharma restricting South Africa to 246 all out.
The victory marks a new chapter for women’s cricket in India, symbolising both progress and promise for the sport’s future in the country.
