The Indian women’s cricket team is once again on the cusp of something monumental, standing at the threshold of their third chance at World Cup glory. After facing heartbreaks in 2005 and 2017, their journey through the World Cups has been nothing short of remarkable, culminating in a resurgence in 2025.
Each tournament has been a transformative chapter, evolving from underdogs who surprised everyone to one of the most cohesive teams in women’s cricket. As the 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup Final approaches, the team carries not only the dreams of past failures but also the hopes of a generation that believes this time could be different.
1. 2005, vs Australia
In 2005, India made its first-ever appearance in a World Cup final in South Africa, a pivotal moment in the history of women’s cricket in the nation. Under the steady leadership of Mithali Raj, the team defeated formidable sides such as England and South Africa, while also registering wins against Ireland and the West Indies. Their campaign saw them lose only one match, to New Zealand, with the games against Australia and Sri Lanka being washed out. These performances earned them a place in the final against Australia.
For a young Indian side, the final was a big occasion. Karen Rolton’s century (107) and Lisa Sthalekar’s 55 helped Australia post a total of 215 — a target India might have fancied chasing down. However, it wasn’t to be. A string of low scores, with only three batters managing to reach double digits — Anju Jain top-scoring with 29 — saw India bundled out for 117, suffering a 98-run defeat.
2. 2017, vs England
Fast forward to 2017, and the narrative took an emotional turn. The Women’s World Cup in England witnessed India reach the final after a stunning semi-final victory over the defending champions, Australia, thanks to a magical 171* from Harmanpreet Kaur. This time around, India lost two games — to Australia and South Africa — but registered clinical wins against England, West Indies, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and New Zealand.
Once again led by Mithali Raj, the team was brimming with hope as they faced England in the final at Lord’s. India’s spirited bowling effort saw England restricted to 228, with Nat Sciver-Brunt (51) and Sarah Taylor (45) top-scoring and several others making handy contributions. In reply, India were 191/4 after top-scorer Punam Raut was dismissed for 86. Harmanpreet Kaur also stepped up with a well-made 51, but a middle- and lower-order collapse saw India fall agonizingly short by just 9 runs.
3. 2025, vs South Africa
Now, two decades after their first final, the Indian team strides into the 2025 Women’s World Cup Final equipped with experience and confidence. Led by Harmanpreet Kaur, they blend youthful exuberance with seasoned talent. The batting strength lies in the elegance of Smriti Mandhana, the fierce aggression of Shafali Verma, and the reliability of Jemimah Rodrigues, while the bowling attack, spearheaded by Renuka Singh, Kranti Gaud and Deepti Sharma, has demonstrated outstanding precision throughout the tournament.
India had a bittersweet league-stage run, starting with wins against Sri Lanka and Pakistan before suffering defeats to South Africa and England. However, they bounced back convincingly in the must-win game against New Zealand. Their best performance came in the semifinal, where they outscored the defending champions, Australia, in the highest successful chase ever. Courtesy of Jemimah Rodrigues’ unbeaten 127, India secured their spot in the final.
This isn’t just a fight for the trophy; it’s about creating a lasting legacy. Every setback faced in 2005 and 2017 has contributed to the resilience and determination of this team. They’ve journeyed from hopeful newcomers to formidable contenders, making a full circle. This final isn’t just another match; it’s a chance for redemption.
The Women in Blue have an opportunity to rewrite their story, turning two decades of heartbreak into an unforgettable moment of triumph. If the stars align, 2025 could finally be the year that India lifts the Women’s World Cup, winning not just the trophy but also the hearts of millions.
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