India’s historic rise in women’s cricket reached a thrilling peak when the national team clinched their maiden ICC Women’s ODI World Cup title under the leadership of Harmanpreet Kaur. Among the heroes of this landmark achievement was 25-year-old opening batter Pratika Rawal, whose stellar performances throughout the tournament helped power India to the top of the podium.
Though sidelined by injury ahead of the semifinals and final, Rawal’s impact was undeniable. In recognition of her exceptional contribution, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta awarded her a cash prize of ₹1.5 crore, celebrating her role in making Indian women’s cricket history.
The 13th edition of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup, hosted by India and Sri Lanka from September 30 to November 2, 2025, culminated in an emotional final at Navi Mumbai’s DY Patil Stadium. India defeated strong South Africa by 52 runs to lift their first-ever ICC title at the senior level in women’s cricket.
Rawal’s tournament was a story of grit and talent. Over seven matches, she amassed 308 runs at an impressive average of 51.33 and a strike rate of 77.77, securing her position as India’s second-highest run-scorer and the fourth overall in the tournament. She showcased her batting prowess with a memorable century and a crucial half-century.
Unfortunately, an ankle injury during India’s last round-robin match against Bangladesh forced her withdrawal from the remainder of the tournament. Shafali Verma stepped in as her replacement as India advanced through the knockout stages. She showcased her batting prowess with a memorable century and a crucial half-century.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta warmly welcomed Rawal at the Jan Seva Sadan on November 8 to honour her achievements and inspire budding athletes. “Our brilliant daughter has made Delhi proud,” the CM declared in a social media post.
“Her journey is a shining example of energy, courage, and women’s empowerment. Delhi not only gives birth to dreams but also helps them take flight,” she added. Gupta’s ₹1.5 crore award is a testament to Rawal’s dedication and her rising stature in Indian cricket.
Looking ahead, Pratika Rawal is set to continue her flourishing career in the upcoming 4th edition of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), scheduled from January 9 to February 5, 2026. After being acquired by UP Warriorz for a base price of ₹50 lakhs in the November mega auction, fans eagerly await her next exploits, this time in the domestic spotlight at the DY Patil Stadium and later at the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara.
Pratika Rawal’s journey from a talented batter to a celebrated world champion and recipient of one of the most lucrative prizes for women’s cricket in India marks a transformative moment for the sport. Her story exemplifies the rising tides of women’s cricket, fueled by skill, resilience, and growing recognition, both on the field and beyond.
Loves all things female cricket