Mithali Raj Celebrates India's Historic Women's World Cup Victory

Mithali Raj's Emotional Reaction to the Win

Mithali Raj, the former captain of the Indian women's cricket team, expressed her overwhelming emotions and pride as India secured their first ICC Women's World Cup trophy by defeating South Africa in a nail-biting final on Sunday. "I just want to give them a hug. Their comeback in this World Cup was truly remarkable," she remarked.

India's Remarkable Comeback Journey

Initially, the team faced significant challenges, losing three consecutive matches, which raised doubts about their ability to reach the semifinals. However, under the guidance of coach Amol Muzumdar and the players' determination, India turned their fortunes around. They not only qualified for the knockout stage but also triumphed in the final, marking their first Women's World Cup victory. "I am incredibly happy and emotional that India has finally won the World Cup. This is something we have all been waiting for, and it has finally happened," Mithali added after the match.

Shafali Verma and Deepti Sharma Lead India to 298

After winning the toss, South Africa chose to bowl first. India started strong with a century partnership between Smriti Mandhana (45 runs off 58 balls, including eight fours) and Shafali Verma, followed by a 62-run partnership between Shafali (87 runs off 78 balls, with seven fours and two sixes) and Jemimah Rodrigues (24 runs off 37 balls, with one four). India set a solid foundation at 166/2.

A partnership of 52 runs between captain Harmanpreet Kaur (20 runs off 29 balls, with two fours) and Deepti Sharma pushed India past the 200-run mark. A late surge from Deepti (58 runs off 58 balls, with three fours and one six) and Richa Ghosh (34 runs off 24 balls, with three fours and two sixes) propelled India to a total of 298/7 in their allotted 50 overs. Ayabonga Khaka was South Africa's standout bowler, taking 3 wickets for 58 runs.

Deepti Sharma's Five-Wicket Haul Secures Victory

In South Africa's chase, they began with a 50-run partnership, with Tazmin Brits (23 runs off 35 balls, including two fours and one six) being the first wicket to fall. Despite captain Laura Wolvaardt's strong performance, the Indian bowlers, including Shafali Verma (2 wickets for 36 runs) and Shree Charani, restricted South Africa to 148/5.

Wolvaardt formed a crucial 61-run partnership for the sixth wicket with Annerie Dercksen (37 runs off 35 balls, with one four and two sixes), which applied pressure on India. Wolvaardt (101 runs off 98 balls, with 11 fours and one six) continued her excellent form, having scored 169 against England in the semifinal just days prior.

However, Deepti Sharma's pivotal bowling spell turned the match in India's favor as she dismissed both set batters, leaving South Africa struggling at 221/8. Deepti became the first Indian woman to take four wickets in a World Cup final, finishing with figures of 5 wickets for 39 runs, leading India to a historic victory by bowling out South Africa for 246 runs.