Virat Kohli couldn't keep calm after Harmanpreet Kaur-led India women broke their 52-year-long jinx to win their first ICC trophy. After years of heartbreaks, India thrashed South Africa by 52 runs in the final to win Women's World Cup 2025 title.
Virat Kohli congratulates India women's team after ODI World Cup 2025 title triumph
The all proud Kohli came out with a heartfelt post for the champions India women's team and stated that this win will inspire generations of girls to take up the sport in the nation.
"The girls have created history and I couldn’t be more proud as an Indian to see the hard work of so many years come to life finally. They deserve all the applause and a big congratulations to Harman and the whole team for achieving this historic feat. Also congratulations to the whole squad and the management for the work behind the scenes. Well done India. Enjoy the moment to the fullest. This will inspire generations of girls to take up the sport in our country," Kohli's Instagram post read.
Playing in front of a fervent home crowd, this victory marks a historic moment as India secured their maiden ODI World Cup title. The discipline, nerves, and all-round skill displayed in this match capped off a golden campaign for the Women in Blue.
Shafali-Mandhana launch pad secure imposing total
Opting to bat first, India posted an imposing total of 298/7, built on a stellar opening partnership and dominant contributions throughout the order. Shafali Verma was the standout performer, smashing a blistering 87 off just 78 balls, while the dependable Smriti Mandhana (45) set the tone early. The momentum was maintained by Deepti Sharma, who anchored the middle overs with a composed 58, and was followed by a crucial late blitz from Richa Ghosh (34 off 24), ensuring the total neared the 300-run mark.
Deepti Sharma stands tall with magical 5-fer
In reply, South Africa's chase was bravely anchored by their captain, Laura Wolvaardt, who stroked a valiant 101. However, the lack of lasting support proved fatal. The match was decisively turned on its head by an exceptional bowling performance from Deepti Sharma, whose off-spin utilized the turning pitch to maximum effect. Deepti finished with a magnificent 5/39 in 9.3 overs, systematically dismantling the South African middle and lower order. Despite partnerships involving Tazmin Brits (23) and Annerie Dercksen (35), South Africa was ultimately bowled out for 246 in the 46th over, securing India's historic triumph.