Women’s World Cup 2025: ‘Cricket is everyone’s game’ - Harmanpreet Kaur sends powerful message with World Cup trophy

Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur shared a heartfelt message after India ended its long-awaited drought by lifting their maiden Women’s World Cup title with a 52-run victory over South Africa on Sunday in Navi

Mumbai.

In the dramatic final moments of the pulsating clash, Kaur took a stunning catch to dismiss Nadine de Klerk off Deepti Sharma’s bowling, sealing India’s place in history. Emotions ran high as players, support staff, former women’s team stalwarts, and fans celebrated through tears of joy.

As has become a tradition across major sporting events, the winning captain posted a picture with the trophy beside her as she slept. After securing the first major title in her illustrious 16-year career, Kaur shared a photo featuring the World Cup trophy and a striking message on her T-shirt.

The shirt carried the old saying, ‘Cricket is a gentleman’s game’, but with a powerful alteration. The word ‘gentleman’s’ was struck off and replaced with ‘everyone’s’. Her shirt read, ‘Cricket is a gentleman’s (struck off) everyone’s game’. Accompanying the image, Kaur captioned her post, ‘Some dreams are shared by a billion people. That’s why cricket is everyone’s game’.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Harmann (@imharmanpreet_kaur)

Earlier, India had posted a formidable 298/7, powered by Shafali Verma’s blistering 87 off 78 balls and Deepti Sharma’s composed 58. In reply, South Africa’s Laura Wolvaardt fought valiantly with a superb 101 off 98 balls, but Deepti’s brilliance with the ball ensured India’s historic triumph.

Following the win, India’s players took a victory lap inside the Dr. DY Patil Sport Academy, Navi Mumbai to soak in the celebrations. Former legends Jhulan Goswami and Mithali Raj joined the team on the field, lifting the coveted trophy with teary eyes. Former Indian captain Rohit Sharma, who was present in the stands, was also seen applauding Kaur and her team for their memorable achievement on home soil.