Harmanpreet’s Gut Call, Shafali’s Magic Seal India’s Glory

When the final whistle blew at the packed Eden Gardens, the roar told its own story — India had finally conquered the ICC Women’s World Cup. A dream years in the making turned real under the calm yet daring leadership of Harmanpreet Kaur, who guided her side to a commanding 52-run victory over South Africa in the 2025 final.

India’s batting had already lit up the evening. A sparkling 87 from the fearless Shafali Verma powered the team to 298/7, her knock a blend of aggression and maturity that set the tone. Smriti Mandhana’s fluent 62 and a late burst from Richa Ghosh added the finishing touches to what looked like a strong total on a tricky surface.

But it wasn’t just Shafali’s bat that made the difference. In a moment that may define Harmanpreet’s captaincy, she trusted her instincts and tossed the ball to the 21-year-old part-timer when South Africa’s Laura Wolvaardt and Sune Luus were threatening to rebuild. “My heart said, give her one over,” Harmanpreet revealed later. The move paid off instantly — Shafali struck twice in the same spell, dismissing both Luus and the dangerous Marizanne Kapp, tilting the game India’s way.

From there, the momentum never shifted. The Indian bowling unit, led by Renuka Singh and Deepti Sharma, maintained relentless pressure. South Africa, chasing 299, folded under nerves and precision bowling, ending at 246 all out.

As the tricolour waved in the stands, Harmanpreet fought back tears. “This is just the beginning,” she said, reflecting on the journey that saw India bounce back from early losses to lift the trophy. “We wanted to break the barrier — now we have. The next goal is consistency. We have the Champions Cup and another World Cup coming. We’ll keep getting better.”

The victory marked more than a win — it was a statement. For a generation of young cricketers who grew up watching heartbreaks in finals, this was redemption. And fittingly, it came from a team that refused to give up, guided by a leader who trusted her gut — and a rising star who turned that faith into history.