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What is the story about?
When the floodlights beamed over the packed stadium last night, every cricket lover across the globe was glued to one thing: the final showdown of the ICC Women's ODI World Cup 2025. Team India faced South Africa in an edge-of-the-seat encounter that had the nation collectively holding its breath. At the end of the match, the cheers roared across living rooms, streets, and social media alike: India had won by 52 runs! This wasn't a win; this was a statement. This was about grit and grace, about the golden girl who owned the pitch, Shafali Verma. With a bat that seemed like an extension of her will, she turned the finals into her personal highlight reel. Smashing boundaries, breaking barriers, and winning hearts all at once, Shafali rose from
the ashes like a phoenix. But who, really, is this powerhouse from Rohtak who's now the talk of the cricketing world? Let's find out.
Who is Shafali Verma?
Shafali Verma is India's own batting tornado. Known for her fierce ability to hit sixes, Shafali has transformed women's cricket with her aggressive playing style. She doesn't wait for opportunities—she creates them, usually by sending the ball sailing into the stands. She became one of the youngest players to have represented India internationally when she made her debut at 15 years of age. Her confidence, composure, and pure love for the game have drawn comparisons to none other than Virender Sehwag. But let there be no confusion—Shafali is carving out a name all her own. Fun fact: When she was a child, her father had to disguise her as a boy to get her into a cricket academy because there weren't enough facilities for girls back then. Talk about dedication!The Road to Glory: Shafali's Cricket Journey
Born on 28 January 2004 to a modest household in Rohtak, Haryana, Shafali was raised amidst dreams that were way bigger than the means. But her father, Sanjeev Verma—a small jewellery shop owner—saw a spark in his daughter. He trained her relentlessly, often facing ridicule from people around him for supporting a girl in a “man’s game.” Today, that same girl is rewriting Indian cricket history. At 15, Shafali broke a record held by her idol Sachin Tendulkar, becoming the youngest Indian to score an international half-century. And ever since then, she has been unstoppable—her bat doing all the talking. In 2025, she led the charge in the ODI World Cup final, further cementing her position as the face of India's next generation of cricketers. Interestingly, Shafali was so small when she first picked up a bat that she had to stand on a stool to practice her shots at home!Shafali Verma’s Net Worth in 2025
Talent pays—and in Shafali’s case, it pays very well. As of 2025, her net worth is estimated between Rs 8 crore and Rs 11 crore, thanks to her multiple income streams: BCCI Contract: She has a Grade B annual central contract worth Rs 30 lakhs. Match Fees: Rs 15 lakhs for a Test, Rs 6 lakhs for an ODI, and Rs 3 lakhs for a T20I. WPL Salary: Plays for Delhi Capitals, earning a solid Rs 2 crore per season. Brand Ambassador: She has major deals with Puma, SG, My11Circle, Pepsi, and Bank of Baroda, which makes her one of the most sought-after faces in women's cricket. It's safe to say, the once small-town girl from Haryana is now living the dream-on and off the field.The Family Behind The Phenomenon
Behind every cricketing star is a family that believed before the world did. For Shafali, that’s her biggest strength. Father: Sanjeev Verma – a jeweler by profession, a coach by passion, and her biggest supporter. Mother: Parveen Bala is the silent force that keeps home and heart running. Siblings: Her brother Sahil and sister Nancy also play cricket, a clear sign that cricket runs in the Verma veins. Her family's belief and perseverance turned obstacles into stepping stones. People in Rohtak refer to her as "Haryana ki Sherni" now, which means The Lioness of Haryana.Love Life: Cricket Comes First
With the Internet abuzz with curiosity regarding her personal life, Shafali has made it very clear that cricket is the only love of her life as of now. There's been no official news about any romantic relationship, and with such focus and dedication, she's married to the game as of now.Life Beyond the Pitch
Despite the fame, Shafali remains grounded. She still goes back to her hometown, spends time with her childhood coach, and the local kids for whom she's now a hero. Presently, she is pursuing her graduation from Rohtak University, balancing studies and cricket like a true professional. As for her lifestyle, Shafali isn’t one to flaunt. She’s kept details of her cars and homes private, though it’s known that after India’s World Cup win, she received a grand hometown welcome—with roads lined with banners and dhols celebrating “Rohtak’s pride.”The Legacy She's Building
At 21, Shafali Verma has achieved all that most would only dream of: a world cup glory, records, and adulation of a nation. Yet, she has just about started. What sets her apart is not the hammering alone but her humility, guts to shun baggage, and an insatiable hunger for improvement. In a sport where women often fight for visibility, Shafali has made herself impossible to ignore. And if the 2025 World Cup is anything to go by, Indian women's cricket is in very capable hands—hands that can swing a bat like a thunderbolt. In Summary: From a little girl disguising herself as a boy to play cricket to leading India to victory in the World Cup, Shafali Verma is more than just a cricketer-she's a revolution in motion. With her fearless spirit, boundless energy, and unwavering focus, she has inspired a generation anew to dream beyond boundaries-literal and metaphorical.Do you find this article useful?
