When the final of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 began, no one imagined that Shafali Verma, ICC CWC Player of the Match, would soon become the talk of the tournament. She wasn’t even part of India’s starting squad until the semi-final. Yet, she transformed her late opportunity into a career-defining moment that changed the game forever.
From Standby to Star Performer
At the start of the World Cup, selectors didn’t include Shafali Verma in the main lineup. She patiently waited on the sidelines, focusing on her training and keeping her mindset strong. Then, fate intervened. When Pratika Rawal suffered an injury before the semi-final, the team called Shafali in.
Immediately, she embraced the challenge. She didn’t waste a second doubting herself. Instead, she prepared mentally to make every ball count. Her confidence grew, and her hunger to prove herself became evident from the first over she faced in the final.
The Knock That Changed Everything
In the final against South Africa at Navi Mumbai, Shafali walked to the crease with determination. From the very first delivery, she played with fearless intent. She attacked loose balls, rotated the strike, and built crucial partnerships. As a result, she scored an outstanding 87 runs off 78 balls, with ten fours and two massive sixes.
Her powerful knock lifted India’s total to 298/7 a score that put tremendous pressure on South Africa. But Shafali didn’t stop there. She also contributed with the ball, claiming the key wickets of Sune Luus and Marizanne Kapp. Those breakthroughs completely shifted the match in India’s favor.
Shafali Verma’s World Cup 2025 Final Performance
| Aspect | Details |
| Match | India Women vs South Africa Women |
| Venue | Navi Mumbai, India |
| Runs Scored | 87 (78 balls) |
| Strike Rate | 111.53 |
| Fours/ Sixes | 10 / 2 |
| Wickets Taken | 2 (Luus, Kapp) |
| Economy Rate | 4.25 |
| Result | India won by 34 runs |
| Award | ICC CWC Player of the Match |
Belief That Moved Mountains
Before the semi-final, Shafali boldly stated, “If I get to play, I will give my best.” True to her words, she delivered beyond expectations. She proved that preparation and persistence always pay off.
Her journey shows how belief and hard work can turn setbacks into success stories. Even though she wasn’t part of the initial squad, she stayed ready. Consequently, when her moment arrived, she made it unforgettable.
Moreover, her performance gave new hope to India’s young cricketers. It reminded them that no opportunity is too small and no dream too big. Her rise will inspire many future stars in women’s cricket.
Impact Beyond the Trophy
After India’s triumph, the cricket world erupted with praise for Shafali Verma. Fans celebrated her courage, and experts called her innings one of the finest in Women’s World Cup history. Her journey from being a standby player to the Player of the Match symbolized determination, focus, and fearlessness.
Additionally, her all-round performance highlighted the growing strength of Indian women’s cricket. With emerging talents like Shafali leading the charge, the team looks ready for a new era of dominance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Shafali Verma, ICC CWC Player of the Match, became more than just an award; it became a symbol of transformation. From being overlooked to becoming India’s hero, she showed the world what resilience truly means.
Ultimately, Shafali didn’t just play in the World Cup final; she owned it. Her passion, skill, and self-belief rewrote India’s cricket history. Indeed, she didn’t just win a match. She changed the game forever.
