Navi Mumbai (Rajeev Sharma): A new chapter in women’s cricket history is about to unfold. As India and South Africa prepare to face off in the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup final at DY Patil Stadium on Sunday, one of them will walk away with their first-ever world title — officially closing the long-standing dominance of England and Australia.
Since the inaugural edition of the tournament in 1973, the World Cup trophy has largely remained in the hands of the two traditional giants. Australia have captured it seven times, while England have lifted it on four occasions. Only New Zealand’s win in 2000-01 has broken that pattern. But this weekend marks a shift — one that signals a broader rise in women’s cricket across continents.
India, playing their third World Cup final, are under immense pressure but also high on belief. After falling short in 2005 and 2017, Harmanpreet Kaur’s squad is determined to turn emotion into triumph on home soil. “We’ve been close before, but this time, we’re hungrier than ever,” said the Indian captain during the pre-match press conference. “It’s not just about winning; it’s about fulfilling a dream for the entire nation.”
South Africa, on the other hand, are scripting a story of resilience. The Proteas women have reached their first-ever ODI World Cup final, continuing an impressive run of consistency across ICC tournaments. Having lost the T20 World Cup final last year, Laura Wolvaardt’s side is eager to take the final step this time. “We’ve grown stronger with every game,” said Wolvaardt. “We respect India, especially with the crowd behind them, but we’re here to compete — not to be overawed.”
The conditions in Navi Mumbai could make for an exciting contest. The DY Patil pitch has offered true bounce and high-scoring encounters, though the evening dew is expected to influence bowling strategies. Meteorologists have also warned of a slight chance of rain, which could further complicate the equation for both sides.
The two teams met earlier in the group stage, where South Africa emerged victorious. Yet, since then, India’s form has peaked — highlighted by a stunning semifinal chase against defending champions Australia that has reignited fan confidence.
This is India’s third time hosting the tournament — after 1997 and 2013 — both of which saw Australia crowned champions. Fans are now eager to witness a different ending: one that finally sees India’s women lifting the trophy at home.
Beyond the outcome, the match itself carries symbolic weight. For the first time in 52 years of women’s ODI World Cups, neither Australia nor England will contest the final. The moment represents not only a power shift but also a global validation of the sport’s growing reach and competitiveness.
As the floodlights turn on and the stands fill with tricolour flags and green jerseys, the anticipation is palpable. Whether the trophy stays in India or heads to South Africa, one thing is certain — by Sunday night, women’s cricket will celebrate a brand-new world champion, and a new era will officially begin.
