The last year was tough, but God rewarded my effort: Shafali Verma on WC final heroics

Picked as a late replacement for injured Pratika Rawal, India opener Shafali Verma said her last-minute inclusion in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup squad served as motivation to give her all for the team as they went on to claim their maiden title.

“When I joined the team ahead of the semi-final, I was determined to contribute to the World Cup win,” Shafali told reporters during a felicitation ceremony in her hometown Rohtak.

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“The final is always a big stage. Initially, I was a bit nervous, but I calmed myself, focused on my strategy, and executed it well. That helped me deliver an all-round performance.”

The 21-year-old, who joined the side just before the semi-final against Australia, made a dream impact in the title clash, producing a match-winning performance in India’s 52-run victory over South Africa. Shafali scored 87 runs and took 2/36, earning her the Player of the Match award in the final.

It was a remarkable comeback for Shafali, who had been dropped from India’s ODI squad earlier in the year after a poor run of form against Australia. Determined to return stronger, she went back to domestic cricket, worked on her game, and was eventually recalled for the World Cup.

“The last year was tough for me. I faced many struggles, but I kept working hard and was rewarded by God for my effort,” Shafali said.

Her all-round heroics capped off a memorable campaign for India, who bounced back from a slow start to lift their first-ever ODI World Cup trophy. Harmanpreet Kaur’s side had suffered three straight defeats in the group stage before rallying to beat New Zealand in a must-win encounter to reach the knockouts.

In the final, Shafali remained composed under pressure, putting up a century opening stand with fellow opener Smriti Mandhana and top-scoring in India’s total of 298/7. Later, her two wickets, those of Sune Luus and Marizanne Kapp in quick succession derailed South Africa’s chase and sealed India’s triumph.

Reflecting on her mindset during the final, Shafali said, “I tried to stay calm and execute my plans, and things went as expected. The only thought was that we had to give our all in those seven hours for our country.”

Shafali, who idolises batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar, credited her family for their unwavering support throughout her journey. She said she had no regrets about missing out on a century in the final, emphasising that winning the trophy was what truly mattered.

“The only thought was that we have to give it all in those seven hours for our country. I don’t regret missing out on a hundred, lifting the World Cup means far more to me,” she said.

Recalling the team’s meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi after their triumph, Shafali said, “The PM spent two hours with us and motivated us.”

With the victory, India joined Australia, England, and New Zealand as only the fourth team to win the coveted Women’s ODI World Cup title.