India’s historic ICC Women’s World Cup victory on Sunday not only ignited nationwide celebrations but also triggered a political debate in West Bengal. Led by Harmanpreet Kaur, the Indian women’s cricket team lifted their maiden World Cup title with a 52-run triumph over South Africa at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. The victory ended decades of heartbreaks, notably from the 2005 and 2017 finals, and marked a watershed moment for women’s cricket in India.
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Soon after the win, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee took to microblogging site X to congratulate the team. “Today, the entire nation is incredibly proud of our Women in Blue for their feat in the World Cup final… You have proved that you are a world-class team at the apex level and you gave us some absolutely brilliant moments. You are our heroes,” she wrote, lauding the players’ grit, skill, and teamwork.
[img=1px,1px]https://data.indianexpress.com/election2019/track_1x1.jpg[/img]BJP Takes a Swipe at Banerjee
However, Banerjee’s congratulatory message quickly drew a political jab from the BJP’s West Bengal unit. The party posted a sarcastic comment referencing her earlier controversial remarks about women staying out late. “OMG they were playing till 12, but you had told them to be home by 8. #Raat8Ta #WomensWorldCup2025,” the BJP wrote, alluding to her October statement following the alleged rape and murder of a medical student in Durgapur. At the time, Banerjee had questioned why the victim was “out at 12.30 at night,” drawing widespread accusations of victim-blaming.
On-Field Brilliance Seals India’s Glory
Meanwhile, India’s players continued to bask in their triumph. Batting first, India posted 298/7, the second-highest total in tournament history. Shafali Verma’s explosive 87 runs and Deepti Sharma’s all-round brilliance, including a five-wicket haul, powered the victory. Smriti Mandhana (45) and Deepti (58) also contributed vital innings, while South Africa’s captain Laura Wolvaardt fought valiantly with a century. Ultimately, Deepti Sharma’s 5/39 and Shafali’s timely strikes ensured India sealed a commanding win.
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Deepti Sharma was named Player of the Tournament, while Shafali Verma earned Player of the Match honors. With this win, India joined the elite circle of women’s cricket world champions alongside Australia, England, and New Zealand, cementing a historic chapter in Indian sports. |
