**Title:** India Makes History: Harmanpreet Kaur’s Brigade Lifts Maiden Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025
**Meta Description:** India’s women’s team makes history, winning their maiden ICC Cricket World Cup 2025. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur’s message: “Cricket is Everyone’s Game” resonates globally.
The air was electric at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai as India’s women’s cricket team etched their names into history. On November 3, 2025, they defeated South Africa in a thrilling final to claim their first-ever ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup title.
The celebrations that followed were a testament to years of dedication and resilience. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur, in a poignant photo, cradled the trophy as if it were a cherished dream finally realized. Her T-shirt, however, carried an even more powerful message: “Cricket is a gentleman’s EVERYONE’S game” – with “gentleman’s” boldly struck out.
A Message Louder Than Words: “Cricket is Everyone’s Game”
Harmanpreet’s T-shirt wasn’t just a fashion statement; it was a declaration. It encapsulated the journey of a generation of women cricketers who had fought against stereotypes and skepticism.
This maiden World Cup triumph wasn’t merely a victory; it was a resounding answer to every doubt and taunt they had faced over the years. It was a moment of vindication for a team that had come so agonizingly close before.
Healing a Nine-Year-Old Wound: The Road to Redemption
For many, this victory had a deeply personal significance. The memories of the 2017 World Cup final, where India lost to England by just nine runs at Lord’s, still lingered.
Following that heartbreaking defeat, the team often faced mocking questions: “What have you ever achieved? Have you ever won anything? What can girls even do? Can girls really play cricket?”
Punam Raut’s Emotional Journey & Shared Dream
Punam Raut, a crucial member of the 2017 squad, vividly recalled those painful moments. She had opened the innings in that final, scoring a sublime 86 off 115 balls, only to see glory slip away by a mere nine runs.
This wound took nine long years to heal. Only three players from that 2017 squad – Harmanpreet Kaur, Deepti Sharma, and Smriti Mandhana – made it to the 2025 final, finally turning heartbreak into history.
“I am very happy and emotional. I couldn’t control my tears,” Punam shared in an exclusive interview. “When I started playing cricket, I experienced bullying. I was bullied by boys. They said girls can’t play cricket.”
Punam reflected on a shared journey with Harmanpreet: “I remember we both debuted in the same World Cup, in 2009. We had the same journey, the same age. I am sure Harmanpreet must have gone through the same experiences. That’s why she wrote, ‘It’s not only a gentleman’s game. It’s everyone’s game.’”
This victory, Punam asserted, was a collective goal: “It was the goal of the team. Even in 2017, we played for that — for all those girls whose parents were restricting them. It is very important to change that mindset. And when a World Cup stage comes in front of you, that’s the opportunity to do something.”
Shafali Verma: Destiny’s Child and Player of the Match
Among the tales of triumph, Shafali Verma’s story stands out. Her name wasn’t even in the standby list when the World Cup squad was announced. She watched the initial matches from her home in Rohtak.
However, fate had other plans. A late call-up came after the in-form Pratika Rawal was ruled out due to injury. Shafali joined the team just before India’s final league match.
Shafali played only two matches in the tournament: the semi-final against Australia and the final against South Africa. Yet, these two appearances etched her name permanently in women’s cricket history.
In the title clash, Shafali delivered a stunning all-round performance. She scored a crucial 87 runs and took two wickets, earning her the coveted Player of the Match award.
“What Shafali said – that God has sent me here – she was absolutely right,” Punam remarked. “Who knew that Shafali Verma would be part of a World Cup-winning team? No one knew. But it all happened. That girl showed so much maturity at such a young age.”
The Class of ’25: Unity, Experience, and WPL’s Impact
Beyond individual brilliance, the 2025 Indian team showcased exceptional unity. Harmanpreet Kaur, often seen guiding youngsters like Kranti Gaud, Amanjot Kaur, and Shree Charani, embodied the role of an elder sister.
“I can see the confidence level in this team. It’s the unity — they back each other,” Punam observed. “There’s maturity in the players. Everyone is young, but they show so much maturity. They know how to support one another.”
Comparing it to 2017, Punam highlighted the significant growth and experience within the squad. The Women’s Premier League (WPL) played a pivotal role in this transformation:
- Enhanced Exposure: Players gained invaluable experience performing on big stages.
- Learning from Legends: Opportunity to play alongside international stars like Australians and other global icons.
- Boosted Confidence: The WPL significantly increased the players’ self-belief and ability to handle pressure.
“Because of the WPL, the confidence level of the players has increased. That’s what made the difference in this World Cup,” Punam concluded.
Conclusion: A New Era for Indian Women’s Cricket
The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 victory is more than just a trophy; it’s a turning point for Indian women’s cricket. It’s a testament to unwavering determination, resilience against stereotypes, and the collective spirit of a team that refused to give up on a dream.
Harmanpreet Kaur’s message, “Cricket is Everyone’s Game,” now resonates globally, inspiring countless young girls to pick up a bat and ball. This historic triumph not only healed old wounds but also ushered in a new, golden era, proving that with talent, unity, and belief, anything is possible.