Former India cricketer Dinesh Karthik believes the stars are aligned for the Indian women’s team to lift the Women’s Cricket World Cup trophy 2025. The Harmanpreet Kaur-led team stormed into the final after a stunning win over Australia, chasing a record 339-run target to knock the defending champions out of the tournament.
Speaking to Cricbuzz a day before the final, Karthik said that the Indian team had all the momentum on their side after stumbling upon the winning combination almost by accident. After three consecutive defeats in the group stage – against South Africa, Australia and England – India were forced to make several changes to their playing XI. A freak injury to Pratika Rawal further changed the lineup, eventually leading to India fielding six bowling options and promoting Jemimah Rodrigues to No.3 in the batting order. The combination seemed to hit the spot against Australia as India produced one of their best performances to book their place in the final against South Africa.
“Everything points to India having the pace. They have beaten two tough opponents in their last three matches. When you have everything in line and you say you are the team expected to win, I would like to think India have a good chance,” said Dinesh Karthik on Cricbuzz.
“India came across this playing XI by accident at the end of this tournament. It could have easily gone pear-shaped, but they stuck together and produced one of the best performances by a women’s team. If they play anywhere near their potential, they will beat South Africa,” he added.
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Former India pacer Zaheer Khan, who was also part of the discussion panel, said a World Cup win for the women’s team would be hugely inspiring. He recalled how the team narrowly missed out on the bottom spot in 2017 after being knocked out by Australia in the semi-finals, but managed to turn the tables this time thanks to brilliant innings by Jemimah Rodrigues and Harmanpreet Kaur.
“It will be hugely inspiring if India win the World Cup. I’m sure the team knows that. It’s just one more day to take care of your emotions. The World Cup final is not just about playing the game, it’s about controlling your emotions. I hope they inspire the new generation,” Zaheer said.
The Women’s World Cup final between India and South Africa will be played on Sunday, November 2 at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Demand for tickets reached an all-time high as fans geared up to witness a potentially historic moment in Indian cricket.
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Issued by:
Kingshuk Kusari
Published on:
November 1, 2025
