Making history in the ICC Women's One-Day World Cup, Team India clinched the title for the first time. In the final match held at DY Patil Stadium, the Indian team defeated South Africa with a resounding 52-run victory. However, one sight post-victory made every player emotional—Pratika Rawal entered the field in a wheelchair to join the team's celebrations.
Pratika Rawal was a prime pick for the Indian team in the World Cup squad, selected for her role as an opening batsman. Unfortunately, she sustained an injury during the last league match, which later sidelined her from the World Cup. Pratika had performed exceedingly well throughout the tournament, but her injury dictated her exit.
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Opportunity Knocks for Shefali
Pratika's injury opened the door for Shefali Verma to join the team. Although she scored only 10 runs in the semifinal against Australia, Shefali shined in the final. She amassed 87 runs and captured two wickets in a stellar performance with both bat and ball.
Pratika Rawal Speaks Out
Arriving on the field in a wheelchair, Pratika Rawal expressed, 'I can't even begin to describe it. Words fall short. This flag on my shoulder means so much to me. Being here with my team feels surreal. Injuries are part of the sport. I'm just elated to still be part of this team. I genuinely love this team. What I'm feeling right now is indescribable. We truly did it! We are the first Indian team to win the World Cup in so many years. All of India deserves this. Honestly, watching it was more nerve-wracking than playing. Every wicket, every boundary—it was a goosebump-raising experience. It was all unbelievable.'
Read More: From a Hat-trick of Losses to World Champions: India's Daughters' Journey in the World Cup
A Journey Through the World Cup
The Indian women's team kicked off their campaign on September 30 against Sri Lanka. They notched their first victory in this match. Their next match against Pakistan on October 5 saw the Indian women's team achieve a comprehensive win. Team India defeated Pakistan by 88 runs.
Then Came an Unfortunate Hat-trick of Losses...
Subsequently, the Indian team faced a hat-trick of losses. On October 9, India suffered its first loss against South Africa, falling short by 3 wickets. This was followed by defeat from Australia, and later, India was narrowly defeated by England on October 19, losing by 4 runs.
Despite the consecutive losses, it seemed unlikely India would reach the semifinals. However, victories against New Zealand and Bangladesh secured India's place in the semifinals. This triumph was followed by victories in both the semifinal and the final.
