Despite Unwanted Record, Harmanpreet Kaur’s Team Finds Silver Lining in Women’s World Cup Final

India captain Harmanpreet Kaur equalled an unfortunate statistical record in the Women’s World Cup 2025 final on Sunday, losing her eighth toss of the tournament against South Africa skipper Laura Wolvaardt. The match, held in Navi Mumbai, saw Harmanpreet match a record that has stood since 1982, when India also lost eight tosses in a single Women’s World Cup campaign. Despite the unwanted milestone, the toss did not dampen the spirit of the Indian camp, with the team focusing instead on the opportunity to post a strong total on the board in the high-stakes final.

India pushed past the 200-run mark in the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 final against South Africa at the Dr DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Sunday, riding on a strong start and a stabilising stand through the middle overs. After losing the toss and being asked to bat, India openers Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana provided an explosive platform, frustrating the South African new-ball attack with positive stroke-play. Shafali led the early charge with a blistering 87 off 78 balls, while Mandhana contributed a composed 45 before both departed in quick succession, briefly shifting momentum towards South Africa.

However, India’s experienced middle-order responded calmly under pressure. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur and all-rounder Deepti Sharma steadied the innings, rotating strike smartly and rebuilding the innings after the double setback. Their partnership ensured that India maintained a competitive run rate while preserving wickets for a strong finish. The duo’s maturity was evident as they resisted South Africa’s disciplined bowling spells, particularly during the middle overs when run-scoring became tougher with field restrictions eased and spin introduced. Harmanpreet’s leadership at the crease and Deepti’s composed presence kept India on track.

Earlier in the day, Mandhana also etched her name in history by becoming the highest-scoring Indian batter in a single Women’s World Cup edition. With her tally now surpassing Mithali Raj’s 409-run record from 2017, Mandhana’s tournament has been a defining one, featuring consistency, resilience and match-shaping contributions at crucial stages. The openers’ foundation, combined with the captain’s grit, reflected India’s balanced batting template—aggression at the top followed by controlled consolidation in the middle.

As the final headed into the crucial death overs, India looked poised to challenge the Proteas with a competitive total. With wickets in hand and finishers waiting, Harmanpreet’s side aimed to push towards a commanding score to put scoreboard pressure on South Africa chasing their maiden World Cup crown. The packed Navi Mumbai stadium remained electric, with fans rallying behind the hosts in pursuit of a historic first Women’s ODI World Cup title.

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