In the ODI Women`s World Cup 2025 final against South Africa, Team India emerged victorious by 52 runs at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai.
This also marked the first-ever World Cup title in Indian women`s cricket history.
Following the historic triumph, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Devajit Saikia has announced a cash prize of Rs. 51 crore for the World Cup-winning Team India.
While speaking to ANI, Saikia heaped praise on the Harmanpreet Kaur-led India by saying that they have not just won the trophy but also the hearts of all the countrymen.
“In 1983, Kapil Dev brought about a new era and encouragement in cricket by making India win the World Cup. The same excitement and encouragement has been introduced by the women today. Harmanpreet Kaur and her team have not just won the trophy today, they have won the hearts of all Indians. They have paved the way for the next generation of women cricketers… Women`s cricket already reached its next level when our team defeated Australia in the semifinals,” he said.
He also credited former BCCI secretary Jay Shah for bringing in a transformation in women`s cricket. Saikia also added that the board will reward Team India`s players, coaches, and support staff with a cash prize of Rs. 51 crore.
“Since Jay Shah took charge of the BCCI (serving as secretary of BCCI from 2019 to 2024), he has brought about many transformations in women`s cricket. Pay parity was also addressed. Last month, ICC Chairman Jay Shah increased women`s prize money by 300 per cent. Earlier, the prize money was $2.88 million, and now it has been increased to $14 million. All these steps have greatly promoted women`s cricket. BCCI has also announced a reward prize of Rs 51 crores for the entire team- players, coaches, and support staff,” said the 56-year-old.
Earlier, in an attempt to chase the target of 299 runs, the Proteas were bowled out for 246 runs in 45.3 overs. Skipper Laura Wolvaardt departed after scoring 101 runs off 98 deliveries, with the help of 11 boundaries and a maximum. But her knock was not enough to lay their hands on the elusive showpiece.
Deepti Sharma was the most successful bowler for the hosts. Bowling 9.3 overs, she bagged five wickets for 39 runs. Shafali Verma, too, claimed two wickets by conceding 36 runs in seven overs. Nallapureddy Charani also picked up one wicket for 48 runs in nine overs.
(With ANI Inputs)