The Indian women’s cricket team made history by winning their first-ever ICC Women’s World Cup title on November 2, 2025. The victory came after a thrilling final against South Africa, where India showed both strength and smart strategy. While many expected experienced bowlers like Deepti Sharma and Pooja Vastrakar to lead the attack, it was young star Shafali Verma who turned the game around — not with her bat, but with her unexpected bowling performance.
Shafali Verma’s Bowling Becomes India’s Secret Weapon
Known across the world for her powerful batting, Shafali Verma shocked everyone by becoming India’s surprise bowling option in the final. She bowled with confidence, control, and smart variations — something that the South African team clearly wasn’t ready for. Her spell not only broke partnerships but also shifted the match completely in India’s favour.
Shafali took two key wickets — Sune Luus and Marizanne Kapp — both reliable South African batters who were looking set to take the game away. These wickets proved to be the turning point of the final.
Laura Wolvaardt Admits: “We Were Not Ready For Shafali’s Bowling”
After the match, South African captain Laura Wolvaardt admitted that her team didn’t expect Shafali to bowl in the final. She said that it was “a surprise factor” and that the slow, front-of-the-hand deliveries made it difficult for her side to read and attack.
“It was frustrating,” Wolvaardt shared in the press conference. “You don’t plan to lose wickets to a part-time bowler in a World Cup final, but she bowled really well and took two big ones.”
Her words clearly showed how much Shafali’s unexpected spell had mentally and strategically disturbed the South African lineup.
Harmanpreet Kaur’s Bold Decision Changes The Game
Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur later revealed that she decided to give Shafali an over purely based on instinct. At that stage, the South African batters were looking comfortable, and Harmanpreet trusted her gut.
She said, “Something in my heart told me to give her the ball, and it worked like magic.”
This brave call turned out to be a masterstroke. Shafali’s first over brought a breakthrough, and from there, India took complete control of the match.
From Criticism To Glory – Shafali’s Redemption Story
A few months ago, Shafali Verma was criticized for her inconsistency in ODIs. However, the World Cup final proved to be her redemption story. She not only scored a brilliant 87 runs off 78 balls at the top order but also picked two key wickets — making her the undisputed Player of the Match.
Her all-round performance reminded fans of the true spirit of Indian cricket — never giving up, no matter how big the stage.
Emotional Words From Shafali After The Win
After the match, Shafali was filled with emotion. She said, “God sent me here to do something good, and I just wanted to stay calm and give my best.”
She also thanked her parents, teammates, and mentors like Sachin Tendulkar for believing in her. Her humility and confidence have made her a fan favorite across the world.
India’s Women’s Team Inspires A New Generation
This World Cup win means more than just a trophy. It represents years of hard work, belief, and breaking stereotypes. For young girls across India, Shafali’s performance is a powerful message — that passion and courage can overcome any challenge.
The entire team, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, has shown that Indian women’s cricket is ready to rule the world stage.
Conclusion
Shafali Verma’s bowling spell will be remembered as one of the greatest surprise moments in cricket history. What began as a captain’s gut feeling turned into a turning point that brought India its first-ever Women’s World Cup title. For South Africa, it was frustration; for India, it was pure magic. The 2025 final wasn’t just about winning a match — it was about creating a new chapter in Indian cricket’s golden story.
FAQs
What did Laura Wolvaardt say about Shafali Verma’s bowling?
She said that Shafali’s bowling surprised and frustrated the South African team because they didn’t expect her to bowl or take key wickets.
How did Shafali Verma perform in the final?
Shafali scored 87 runs and took 2 wickets, earning the Player of the Match award.
Who took the decision to let Shafali bowl in the final?
Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur trusted her instinct and gave Shafali the ball, which turned out to be a game-changing move.
Why is this win special for India?
This is India’s first ICC Women’s World Cup title, breaking the long dominance of England, Australia, and New Zealand.
What message does Shafali’s performance give to young players?
Her performance proves that with confidence, hard work, and belief, anything is possible — even turning a surprise move into history.