HOSTS MAKE HISTORY – India become Champions for first time

India made history at the 2025 Cricket World Cup this weekend when they became only the fourth team to win the competition. Previously, only Australia (seven titles), England (four titles), and New Zealand (one title) had lifted the trophy.

India beat South Africa by 52 runs in the rain-delayed final, as the month-long competition ended on Sunday. Having reached 298-7 in their 50 overs, India had the tricky task of breaking the partnership between in-form Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits. Just as the pair looked to be settling in, Brits was run out for 23. Wolvaardt stoically continued as the wickets fell around her, reaching 101 before she was caught. Deepti Sharma did most of the damage with 5/39 and fittingly ended South Africa’s innings on 246 when she bowled, and captain Harmanpreet Kaur caught, Nadine de Klerk to win their first title.

India made their debut in the competition nearly 50 years ago, and becoming champions on home soil was a wonderful end to an excellent World Cup tournament. Having been runners up on two previous occasions, winning at home on the third attempt was a sweet victory. They hadn’t made it easy for themselves, losing three games in a row during the competition, but they showed the heart of true champions, coming back and knocking out Australia before becoming World Cup Champions for the first time. Congratulations India!