The stage is set for a historic and emotional evening in Navi Mumbai today as India and South Africa face each other in the final of the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025. The match will be played at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy from 3 PM IST, and both teams are chasing their first-ever ICC trophy. For fans across the world, this is not just a match — it feels like the start of a new chapter in women’s cricket.
India have been here before. The heartbreak of 2017 at Lord’s, where India fell short by just nine runs against England, still sits heavily on many hearts. The 2005 final loss to Australia also remains a painful memory. Once again, India stand one step away from the trophy, hoping this time the dream will finally come true. On the other hand, South Africa will walk out for their first-ever ODI World Cup final. They have waited a long time for this moment, after three semi-final exits in the past.
The build-up to the match has been tense and emotional. India captain Harmanpreet Kaur said the team is fully ready for the big event. “Tomorrow’s match is going to be very interesting, and we are mentally and physically prepared,” she said. She also praised South Africa’s balanced unit and their strong comeback after a shaky start in the tournament. South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt acknowledged the pressure on India. “They have the whole crowd behind them and are expected to win. But knockout games are different,” she said confidently. 
The conditions in Navi Mumbai are expected to help batters. A full 100-over match is likely, though rain could interrupt play. There is a reserve day, but officials will try everything to complete the match today itself. The pitch has been full of runs this tournament, and fans can expect big scores and exciting strokeplay. With a large and loud crowd expected, the home support could give India energy, but it may also bring extra pressure.
India enter the final with confidence after defeating mighty Australia in the semi-final. In the group stage, India struggled and finished fourth with three wins in seven matches, including a washed-out game against Bangladesh. But the team peaked at the right time, stopping Australia’s unbeaten run in a dramatic knockout match. South Africa also came into form when needed, beating England by 125 runs in the semi-final thanks to a stunning 169 from captain Laura Wolvaardt.
India will miss Pratika Rawal, who was ruled out due to injury after scoring 308 runs in the group stage. Shafali Verma steps in her place, and all eyes will again be on Smriti Mandhana, who has been in excellent form with 389 runs so far. Wolvaardt, meanwhile, leads the tournament with 470 runs and has been the backbone of South Africa’s batting.
The Women’s Premier League (WPL) has played a huge role in shaping this Indian squad, creating depth and match-winners. The energy around women’s cricket in India has grown rapidly since the 2017 World Cup run, and today feels like another turning point. Fans in every corner of India are hoping the long wait ends and the trophy finally comes home.
