“God Sent Me Here To Do Something Nice”: Shafali Verma on India’s World Cup Glory

Shafali Verma, the 21-year-old opener who entered the ICC Women's World Cup as a last-minute injury replacement for Pratika Rawal, delivered a match-defining all-round performance in the final against South Africa on November 2, 2025, propelling India to their maiden title with a commanding 52-run victory at DY Patil Stadium.

Batting at the top, Verma smashed a blistering 87 off 78 balls—her first ODI fifty in three years—featuring seven fours and two sixes, laying the foundation for India's imposing 298 for 7. She then returned with the ball to claim 2 for 36, dismissing key Proteas batters and earning her the Player of the Match award, making her the youngest recipient in a World Cup final at 21 years and 279 days. Verma's heroics not only broke India's 18-year white-ball drought but also marked the country's fifth senior ICC trophy across formats, blending raw aggression with newfound maturity.

Reflecting on her improbable journey, Verma credited a sense of destiny for her semifinal inclusion, telling broadcasters post-match, "I said at the start that God has sent me here to do something nice, and that was reflected today. Very happy that we won, and I cannot express it in words." The Haryana batter, who had been sidelined from the ODI squad for over a year amid form concerns, described the call-up as a daunting shift from a domestic T20 tournament. Yet, she channelled self-belief and external support to thrive under pressure, stating, "It was difficult, but I had confidence in myself—that if I could stay calm, I could achieve everything." Her composure shone through in a crucial 100-run opening stand with Smriti Mandhana (45), setting an unassailable tone despite early rain delays.

Verma's emotional outpouring extended to gratitude toward her inner circle and team mentors, emphasising their role in her redemption arc. "My parents, my friends, my brother, and everyone supported me and helped me understand how to play. It was very important for my team and me, and I just wanted to make my team win," she shared, highlighting the mental fortitude built during isolation from the national setup.

Captain Harmanpreet Kaur and veterans like Mandhana granted her the liberty to unleash her natural stroke-play, a freedom Verma credited for her clarity: "My mind was clear, and I worked on my plans. So happy that I could execute... They asked me just to play my own game, and when you get that clarity, that is all you need." This backing transformed her from a doubted prodigy into the final's linchpin, underscoring the team's cohesive spirit.

Also Read: Mandhana Ends World Cup With 434 Runs, Surpasses Mithali Raj’s 2017 Record for India

A surreal boost came from the stands, where cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar's presence ignited Verma's fire. "It is a very memorable moment. When I saw him, it gave me an incredible boost. I keep talking to him, and he keeps giving me confidence. He is the master of cricket, and we keep getting inspired just looking at him," she revealed, evoking the full-circle inspiration for a generation weaned on Tendulkar's legacy. As fireworks illuminated the Navi Mumbai night and the trophy was hoisted amid tears and cheers, Verma's words encapsulated the triumph's profundity—a testament to resilience, faith, and unyielding passion that has redefined Indian women's cricket.

Also Read: Women's World Cup Final: Smriti-Shafali Open Strong as India Bat First