NAVI MUMBAI: The wait is finally over! India have etched their name in the annals of cricket history by clinching their maiden ICC Women’s ODI World Cup title, defeating South Africa by 52 runs in a thrilling final at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy on Sunday.
With this triumph, India became only the fourth nation to lift the coveted trophy in the tournament’s 52-year history, joining the ranks of cricketing powerhouses Australia, England, and New Zealand.
India’s memorable 2025 World Cup victory
Set a daunting 299-run target, South Africa started confidently through Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits, who stitched together a solid opening stand. However, once India’s bowlers found their rhythm, the momentum swung sharply.
Skipper Wolvaardt fought a lone battle, crafting a brilliant 101 off 98 balls, peppered with 11 boundaries and a six. But her efforts weren’t enough to resist India’s bowling brilliance, led by Deepti Sharma, who delivered a match-winning spell of 5 for 39 in 9.3 overs.
Shafali Verma (2 wickets) and Shree Charani also contributed crucial breakthroughs as South Africa folded for 246 in 45.3 overs.
A historic moment for Indian women’s cricket
This victory marks a watershed moment for Indian women’s cricket. After years of near-misses, the Women in Blue finally lifted the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, cementing their place among the sport’s elite.
The first-ever Women’s World Cup was held in 1973, where England defeated Australia to claim the inaugural title — two years before the men’s version began. Since then, the tournament has seen dominance from Australia and England, with India now breaking into the winners’ circle.
Complete List of Women’s ODI World Cup Champions
Team Titles Years Won
Australia 7 1978, 1982, 1989, 1998, 2005, 2013, 2022
England 4 1973, 1993, 2009, 2017
New Zealand 1 2001
India 1 2025
Australia remains the most successful team in Women’s ODI World Cup history, boasting seven titles, including a golden era of three consecutive wins (1978, 1982, 1989).
England follow with four titles, while New Zealand’s 2001 victory came in a nail-biting final against Australia.
Now, with India’s 2025 World Cup win, a new chapter begins — one that could redefine the global balance of women’s cricket.
