In a proud moment for Himachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced a cash reward of Rs 1 crore for Indian pacer Renuka Singh Thakur following India’s historic triumph in the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025.
The 29-year-old pacer from Shimla was part of the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side that clinched India’s maiden ICC title at the senior level, defeating South Africa by 52 runs in the final at DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai, on November 2.
“The daughters of our country created history by winning the World Cup. A daughter from Himachal Pradesh also played in the World Cup, Renuka Singh Thakur, and she performed well yesterday. On this auspicious occasion, I announce that I am giving Rs 1 crore to her. She has brought glory to Himachal,” said CM Sukhu while speaking to the media.
Under the guidance of head coach Amol Muzumdar, India’s campaign, co-hosted across India and Sri Lanka from September 30 to November 2, was marked by tactical clarity, fearless batting, and disciplined bowling. In the grand finale, India, batting first, posted a commanding total.
Harmanpreet Kaur, who ultimately became the first Indian captain to lift an ICC title at home. The bowlers backed up the total with precision and discipline, restricting South Africa, led by Laura Wolvaardt, and sealing a 52-run win that resonated far beyond Navi Mumbai.
Renuka Singh, who has steadily emerged as one of India’s most reliable new-ball bowlers since her ODI debut against New Zealand at Queenstown in February 2022, delivered tidy spells throughout the tournament. Across six innings in the 2025 World Cup, she claimed three wickets at an economy rate of 4.02, complementing India’s dominant bowling unit.
Cumulatively, she now boasts 41 wickets from 27 ODIs at an average of 25.82, with four four-wicket hauls and a five-wicket haul to her name. Though her scalps were fewer this tournament, her consistent lines and sharp seam movement reinforced India’s early breakthroughs, showcasing her continued value in pressure contests.
Commending her achievement, CM Sukhu highlighted the pride Renuka has brought to the hill state. The moment stands as both recognition of Renuka’s quiet, consistent contribution to India’s historic Women’s World Cup title and a testament to the growing stature of women’s cricket across the nation.
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