India’s young cricket star Shafali Verma has opened up about the challenges and emotions that shaped her journey to World Cup glory. The 21-year-old, who played a decisive role in India’s historic Women’s ODI World Cup win, shared how perseverance and self-belief helped her bounce back from a tough year.
Called up as a replacement for injured batter Pratika Rawal, Shafali made the opportunity count in the biggest way possible. In the final against South Africa, she delivered a match-winning all-round performance, scoring 87 runs and taking two wickets for 36 runs in India’s 52-run victory. Her dazzling performance earned her the Player of the Final award and sealed India’s first-ever global title in women’s cricket.
“The last one year was very tough for me. I faced a lot of struggles, but I kept working extremely hard and was rewarded by God for my efforts,” Shafali said after a felicitation event .
Recalling her nerves before joining the team for the semifinal against Australia, she explained how she settled herself mentally ahead of the final. “When I joined the team ahead of the semifinal, I was determined to contribute to the World Cup victory. The final is always a big stage. Initially, I was a bit nervous, but I calmed myself, focused on my strategy, and executed it well. That helped me deliver an all-around performance,” she said with a smile.
🗣️ “The past year has been particularly tough for me”
~ Shafali Verma#CricketTwitter #CWC2025 pic.twitter.com/KdIHScGSLt
— Female Cricket (@imfemalecricket) November 9, 2025
After returning home to Rohtak, Shafali was greeted with a grand celebration. Eager fans and well-wishers showered her with love, while Haryana’s minister Krishan Kumar Bedi praised her for making both the state and the entire country proud.
Shafali shared a powerful message for young girls chasing their dreams. She urged young girls to believe in themselves and work hard. Success will follow eventually, reminding them that dedication and belief are the cornerstones of achievement.
The Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian team later met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who hosted the champions at his residence. Shafali said the meeting was inspiring and motivating. The Prime Minister spent two hours with the Indian team. He encouraged the team and appreciated their efforts. This team made the whole nation proud.
A devoted admirer of Sachin Tendulkar, Shafali said she felt no regret about missing a century in the final. Scoring a century would have been nice, but the bigger goal was to lift the World Cup for India, she said, reflecting her team-first mindset.
Looking ahead, the young opener is set to meet Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on November 12. As she continues to bask in the joy of India’s triumph, Shafali’s journey stands as a testament to determination, focus, and unshakable faith , qualities that turned a year of struggle into the most glorious chapter of her career.