Indian Women's Cricket Team Poised to Make History in World Cup Final Against South Africa

The Indian women's cricket team is set to compete for their first World Cup title against South Africa. Former captain Shantha Rangaswamy reflects on the team's journey from humble beginnings to this historic moment.

Indian women's cricket has evolved significantly, moving from humble beginnings to being on the brink of a historic World Cup victory. The team, having faced defeats in the 2005 and 2017 finals, is now set to compete against South Africa at the DY Patil Stadium. This match could potentially transform the landscape of women's cricket in India.

Former captain Shantha Rangaswamy believes Harmanpreet Kaur's team deserves their first title. Reflecting on past struggles, she shared, "From traveling in unreserved coaches to sleeping in dormitories on the floor, we even had to carry our own bedding, things like that. We had the cricket kit on the back like a backpack and a suitcase in one hand," Rangaswamy recalled in an exclusive interaction with . "But then, were so happy that the current lot are getting all the facilities. They deserve it and and the proof of the pudding is in the eating. The results are showing now of all the efforts the girls have put in, the BCCI, the state associations, all that has contributed to the success of womens cricket."

Impact of Potential Victory

Rangaswamy predicts a significant rise in female cricket participation if India wins. She compared it to Kapil Dev's 1983 World Cup win that revolutionised men's cricket. "It will be a huge plus for women's cricket in India because if you see 1983 World Cup win, Kapils Dev team changed the course of direction for mens cricket," she said. "This will propel a lot of girls to take to womens cricket. Im telling you, if we win this, in the next five years the number of women cricketers would have doubled or tripled in this country."

The former captain also acknowledged Jay Shah's contributions as BCCI secretary and ICC chairman. His initiatives, including launching the Women's Premier League in 2023, have significantly boosted women's cricket. "When Jay Shah was the BCCI secretary, he made a lot of changes. Im sure all that gave a big boost to womens cricket. I am saying this because I was on the apex to support womens cricket. That has paid a lot of dividends," she said.

Key Performances

Rangaswamy praised Harmanpreet Kaur's performance against Australia in the semifinal. She believes this victory justifies India's claim to the World Cup trophy. "After this win over Australia, they deserve the cup," she stated. Jemimah Rodrigues also received recognition for her contribution but Harmanpreet's innings stood out.

"Jemimah’s Rodrigues knock, she did play well, but I think the best knock was Harmanpreets. Normally shes done better. She deserves kudos," she said. "As a batter and a fielder, shes fantastic. Her innings was of great value to the side. Im not trying to undermine Jemimahs knock but she had two, three lives reprieves. Harman played class," Rangaswamy added.

The foundation laid decades ago is now yielding results as Indian women's cricket reaches new heights. With improved facilities and support from organisations like BCCI, players are showcasing their talent on international stages.

With inputs from PTI