Shafali Verma on World Cup Glory: This Victory Is for the Entire Nation

Shafali Verma, who played a key role in India’s historic Women’s World Cup victory, is once again making headlines. In the final of the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, she scored 87 runs and took two wickets, earning the Player of the Match title. Shafali called this win a “turning point” for Indian women’s cricket — just like the men’s 1983 World Cup triumph. The young star from Haryana, who had earlier led India to victory in the Under-19 World Cup, has now helped the senior team become world champions too. In an exclusive chat, Shafali opened up about her emotions, the joy of victory, and the meaning of this journey.

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India reached the final twice before but couldn’t win the trophy. How do you see this historic moment?

We have won the World Cup — this is a victory for women’s cricket. I believe this will completely change the picture of women’s cricket in India. Just as the men’s 1983 win became a turning point for cricket in our country, I feel this win will be the same for women’s cricket. You could say this victory belongs to every woman in India.

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When Pratika Rawal got injured, you were called into the team. How was the journey from that moment to the final?

I would just say — it was written by God. The moment I heard I was joining the team, confidence automatically grew within me. I had been playing domestic cricket regularly and was in good form. When the call came, I trusted myself. I had already played the previous World Cup and the semifinals. God gave me another chance, and I proved myself in the final. I’m just happy that I could contribute to the team’s win.

You shone with both bat and ball in the final. Which gave you more satisfaction?

Bowling gave me immense joy because, as a batter, when you pick up wickets too, it feels really good. I’ve been bowling regularly in domestic matches, so I had confidence in my bowling. When I got the ball, I knew I’d bowl with the right length. I enjoyed every bit of my game that day.

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You struggled in the semifinal but became the hero in the final. What changed in those two nights?

When you want to perform well for your team in a big match, your mind runs through many thoughts. After the semifinal, I kept thinking — what if I don’t score, what if the team loses? Those two days were tough. But when the final day came, I told myself — it’s now or never. I knew God was with me, and my only focus was to do my best for the team.

Becoming ‘Player of the Match’ in a World Cup final is a dream for any player. How important is this moment for your career?

It’s extremely special because God gives you only a few chances, and you must make the most of them. In the semifinal, I tried my best but couldn’t score runs. I accepted that and told myself the next chance must count. I stayed calm and focused on my practice, which boosted my confidence.

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How do you see BCCI’s decision to introduce equal match fees for men and women players? Is this the real beginning of change?

Absolutely. When women cricketers receive the same match fees and facilities as men, they become financially stronger and more independent. Earlier, there were limitations, but now we can focus fully on fitness and skill — working with trainers, net bowlers, and throwdown specialists. This decision has boosted every player’s confidence. When BCCI shows such strong support, it becomes our responsibility to give our 100% for the country.

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What are your hopes for the future of Indian women’s cricket?

I’m from Haryana, and the Haryana Cricket Association has been doing a great job promoting women’s cricket. Anirudh sir has always been very supportive. There’s been a lot of positive change — regular camps are organized now, which really help the girls. Many talented players are emerging from the state, and young cricketers today are much more confident than ever before.

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