Harmanpreet Kaur hails teammates, says India truly deserve the champions’ tag
Skipper hails team’s belief, resilience, and unity after overcoming early setbacks to clinch India’s maiden ICC Women’s World Cup title.
India, Nov 3 : Even after three early losses in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, Indian women’s cricket captain Harmanpreet Kaur never lost faith in her team a belief that ultimately powered India to their historic maiden title win against South Africa on Sunday.
“Even after those three losses, we always had that belief,” Harmanpreet said. “Credit to every single member. They stayed positive, focused, and gave everything day and night. This team truly deserves to be here,” she added after leading India to their first ever ICC Women’s World Cup crown. India had previously reached the finals twice but fell short both times.
The skipper praised her teammates for stepping up in crucial moments of the final. “When Laura Wolvaardt and Sune Luus were batting, they looked really good. I saw Shafali standing there, and the way she batted earlier I just knew it was her day. My heart said, ‘Give her one over.’ She’s fearless, positive, and always ready to step up for the team.”
Acknowledging the tricky conditions, Harmanpreet said, “The rain and overhead weather made the pitch challenging. We knew 290 was a fighting total in the final. Finals always come with pressure. Credit to South Africa, they played beautifully. But when they panicked a bit, we seized the moment, took those crucial wickets, and turned the game our way. It was very special.”
Harmanpreet credited the coaching staff and the BCCI for their unwavering support. “Over the last two years under Amol sir, we’ve worked incredibly hard. He kept reminding us that this team could achieve something extraordinary. The support staff and the BCCI trusted us, made minimal changes, and believed in this group. Today’s victory belongs to everyone past and present who has been part of this journey.”
Looking ahead, the captain said the team’s focus will be on consistency and building on their success. “We wanted to break this barrier, and now we’ve done it. Our next goal is to make this consistent to keep winning and performing at the top level. With the Champions Cup and another World Cup next year, big challenges are ahead. This is not the end it’s the start of a new chapter.”
India’s first-ever Women’s World Cup triumph, under Harmanpreet Kaur’s inspiring leadership, stands as a testament to the team’s belief, unity, and unyielding spirit.
