Mumbai: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Devajit Saikia has announced a cash reward of Rs 51 crore for the ICC Women’s World Cup-winning Team India.
Team India ended years of heartbreak from the 2005 and 2017 finals, defeating South Africa to claim their first-ever world title across both ODI and T20I formats.
Speaking to media, Saikia said, “In 1983, Kapil Dev ushered in a new era for Indian cricket by leading the team to a World Cup victory. Today, the women’s team has recreated that same magic and inspiration. Harmanpreet Kaur and her players have not only lifted the trophy but also the hearts of every Indian. Their triumph will inspire future generations of women cricketers. The turning point came when our team beat Australia in the semifinals — that’s when women’s cricket reached the next level.”
Saikia also highlighted the transformation in women’s cricket under BCCI Secretary Jay Shah’s leadership (2019–2024). “During his tenure, several reforms were introduced, including pay parity. Just last month, ICC Chairman Jay Shah increased women’s prize money by 300 per cent — from $2.88 million to $14 million. These measures have significantly boosted women’s cricket. As a token of appreciation, BCCI is awarding Rs 51 crore to the players, coaches, and support staff,” he added.
In the World Cup final, South Africa won the toss and chose to bowl first. Smriti Mandhana (45 off 58 balls) and Shafali Verma (87 off 78) provided a strong start with a century stand, followed by a 62-run partnership between Shafali and Jemimah Rodrigues (24 off 37) that took India to 166/2.
Contributions from Harmanpreet Kaur (20) and Deepti Sharma (58 off 58) steadied the innings, while Richa Ghosh (34 off 24) delivered a late flourish. India posted a competitive 298/7 in 50 overs, with Ayabonga Khaka (3/58) leading the South African bowling attack.
Chasing 299, South Africa started steadily but soon lost wickets at regular intervals. Despite a fighting century from Laura Wolvaardt (101 off 98) and a 61-run stand with Annerie Dercksen (37 off 35), the momentum shifted when Deepti Sharma (5/39) and Shafali Verma (2/36) struck crucial blows.
Deepti’s five-wicket haul — including a game-changing spell that dismissed both set batters — sealed the victory, as India bowled out South Africa for 246, clinching their historic maiden Women’s World Cup title.
