The highly anticipated ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 final took place on November 2 at the iconic DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, setting the stage for a thrilling cricketing showdown between the Indian Women and South African Women teams. Both squads, having demonstrated exceptional skill and grit throughout the tournament, clashed for the coveted title in an exciting day-night affair watched by fans worldwide.

India set a challenging target of 299 runs, posting a solid total of 298/7 in their 50 overs. The spotlight shone brightly on South African skipper Laura Wolvaardtwho smashed a spectacular century in the final, keeping South Africa’s hopes very much alive as they edged closer to a historic maiden Women’s World Cup victory.

Laura Wolvaardt’s spectacular century in the final

The South African captain once again emerged as the fulcrum of her team’s batting effort, constructing a masterclass innings that underscored her incredible form throughout the tournament.

Wolvaardt scored a brilliant 101 runs off 98 balls, marked by 11 fours and a six, before being dismissed by Deepti Sharma.

Her innings was an epitome of composure and timing as she expertly navigated the demanding chase on a pitch that offered little assistance to the batters. Wolvaardt was well supported by Compensation Brits who contributed 23 runs, helping establish an initial steady platform with a 51-run opening partnership.

Wolvaardt’s century in the final not only demonstrated her sheer class but also set new records, as she became the highest run-scorer in a single edition of the ICC Women’s World Cupsurpassing notable predecessors like Alyssa Healy.

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Here’s how fans reacted:

South Africa inches closer to a historic result facing disciplined Indian bowling

Despite Wolvaardt’s heroics and a strong start, South Africa found the required run rate creeping up as they approached the final stages of the match. With 78 runs needed from the last 50 balls, the Challengers pressed on but faced relentless pressure from the Indian bowlers.

Deepti Sharma’s remarkable bowling spell, including the dismissal of Wolvaardt, signaled a turning point, putting South Africa on the back foot.

Bowlers like Shree Charani and Shafali Verma exerted control in the middle overs, picking key wickets and tightening the run flow. The Indian bowling discipline, backed by brilliant fielding efforts, stemmed the South African momentum just when the Proteas seemed poised to complete a historic chase.

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This article was first published at WomenCricket.coma Tezzbuzz company.