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The 21-year-old Shafali Verma became nation's hero with her all-round performance in the Women's ODI World Cup 2025 final against South Africa. She had big shoes to fill as an injured Pratika Rawal was among the top run-scorers in the tournament. After an underwhelming outing in the semifinal against Australia, she scored 87 runs and took two crucial wickets in the final. A week after the maiden World Cup win, Shafali opened up on the struggles she faced after getting dropped from the side.
"The last year was tough for me. I faced many struggles, but I kept working hard and was rewarded by God for my effort," Shafali told reporters after a felicitation event in Rohtak, Haryana.
Shafali is likely to continue as opener in the ODI team until Pratika recovers from her injuries. Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary had said that the 25-year-old opener may take a few months to get back on the field.
Shafali wants the young girls to believe in themselves and work towards the goal in the field of their choice.
"They should always work hard in whatever field they choose and have self-belief, the results will follow," she said.
Shafali on her return and final
Shafali said she was nervous but determined to contribute to the cause as she got the opportunity in big games.
"When I joined the team ahead of the semi-final, I was determined to contribute to the World Cup win," she said. "The final is always a big stage. Initially, I was a bit nervous, but I calmed myself, focused on my strategy, and executed it well. That helped me deliver an all-round performance."
Shafali had a conversation with India's legendary batter Sachin Tendulkar who she considers her role model. She was pleased that she was able to execute her plans in the final.
"I tried to stay calm and execute my plans, and things went as expected. The only thought was that we had to give our all in those seven hours for our country," she further added.
Shafali gets retained by DC
Meanwhile, Shafali was among the five players retained by Delhi Capitals ahead of the Women's Premier League (WPL) mega auction. DC have also retained Jemimah Rodrigues, Marizanne Kapp, Annabel Sutherland, Niki Prasad.
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