The Indian women’s cricket team have received further recognition for a landmark season, earning a nomination for the 2026 Laureus World Team of the Year award following their maiden triumph at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. The winners will be announced on 20 April at the Palacio de Cibeles in Madrid, Spain, with members of the Laureus World Sports Academy voting to honour outstanding team achievements across global sport.
India’s World Cup success stands as one of the defining stories of the 2025 season and a milestone in women’s cricket. In the final at Navi Mumbai, India compiled 298 for 7 in 50 overs, setting South Africa a formidable target.
Shafali Verma anchored the innings with an enterprising 87 from 78 deliveries, while Deepti Sharma contributed 58 runs to maintain momentum. Through calculated strokeplay and steady strike rotation, India ensured the scoreboard continued to move throughout their innings.
South Africa mounted a spirited response, highlighted by captain Laura Wolvaardt’s superb 101 off 98 balls. Despite her century and valuable support from teammates, the chase fell short as South Africa were bowled out for 246 in 45.3 overs. India secured a 52-run victory to claim the world title for the first time.
Discipline with the Ball Seals the Title
After setting the target, India’s bowlers delivered a decisive display. Deepti Sharma played a central role, supported by a disciplined collective effort that maintained pressure through accurate lines and sharp fielding. Crucial wickets at key stages halted South Africa’s progress and ensured India remained in control.
The triumph capped a demanding campaign. India had endured three defeats in the group stage, including an earlier loss to South Africa, and needed resilience to keep their tournament alive. Their turnaround included a notable semi-final win over defending champions Australia, where they successfully chased a challenging total. That result carried momentum into the final at a packed DY Patil Stadium, where India produced a composed performance under pressure.
Competing Among Sporting Giants
The Laureus nomination recognises the collective character and cohesion of India’s World Cup-winning squad. The team is shortlisted alongside:
- England Women’s Football Team
- European Ryder Cup Team (golf)
- McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team (UK, motor racing)
- Oklahoma City Thunder (USA, basketball)
- Paris Saint-Germain (France, football)
The inclusion of the Indian women’s cricket team among leading outfits from multiple disciplines underscores the global significance of their achievement.
Winning the ICC Women’s World Cup has already elevated the profile of women’s cricket in India. The final drew widespread acclaim and significant audiences, marking a pivotal moment for the sport in the country. The Laureus nomination extends that recognition beyond cricket, placing the team on an international sporting platform.
Regardless of the outcome on 20 April, the nomination reflects a year defined by determination, quality and a breakthrough accomplishment that resonated with fans worldwide.
