The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a cash reward of ₹51 crore for the Indian women’s cricket team following their historic ICC Women’s World Cup victory. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the announcement, crediting ICC Chairman Jay Shah for his continued efforts to elevate women’s cricket globally.
“Since Jay Shah took charge as BCCI secretary in 2019, several transformative steps have been taken to strengthen women’s cricket, including pay parity,” Saikia said. “Last month, as ICC Chairman, he increased the women’s prize money by 300 per cent — from $2.88 million to $14 million. Now, BCCI has announced a reward of ₹51 crore for the entire squad, including players, coaches, and support staff.”
Saikia compared the 2025 victory to India’s 1983 men’s World Cup win under Kapil Dev, calling it a defining moment for women’s cricket. “Harmanpreet Kaur and her team haven’t just won a trophy — they’ve won the hearts of a billion Indians and inspired the next generation of women cricketers. Women’s cricket truly reached the next level when we defeated Australia in the semifinals,” he added.
India vs South Africa: World Cup Final Highlights
In the final, South Africa won the toss and opted to bowl first. Openers Smriti Mandhana (45) and Shafali Verma (87) gave India a solid foundation with a 100-run partnership, followed by key contributions from Jemimah Rodrigues (24), captain Harmanpreet Kaur (20), and Deepti Sharma (58). Richa Ghosh’s quick-fire 34 off 24 balls powered India to 298/7 in 50 overs. Ayabonga Khaka led South Africa’s bowling with 3/58.
Chasing 299, South Africa began well but soon faltered as wickets fell at regular intervals. Despite captain Laura Wolvaardt’s brilliant century (101 off 98 balls) and her 61-run partnership with Annerie Dercksen (37), India’s bowlers held firm. Deepti Sharma produced a match-winning spell, claiming 5/39 — the first five-wicket haul by an Indian woman in a World Cup final — as South Africa were bowled out for 246.
India’s triumph marks their maiden ICC Women’s World Cup title, capping a remarkable campaign defined by teamwork, resilience, and historic performances.
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