The Indian women’s cricket team etched its name in history, turned long-cherished dreams into reality and clinched its maiden Women’s World Cup title with a commanding 52-run victory over South Africa on Sunday.
On the occasion of the final, India’s triumph was powered by a player who, until a week ago, wasn’t even part of the squad. Shafali Verma, 21, had endured heartbreak five years ago at a packed MCG, when hopes rested heavily on her shoulders in the T20 World Cup final. However, her early dismissal triggered India’s collapse, eventually leading to an 85-run defeat. But this night belonged to redemption. With the bat, Shafali blazed a stunning 87 to anchor India’s innings, and later, with the ball, turned the game on its head to script one of Indian cricket’s greatest triumphs.