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Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has hailed India’s historic Women’s World Cup victory as a landmark moment in the nation’s sporting journey — one that will be remembered “for ages to come.” In a rain-hit final at a roaring DY Patil Stadium, India put up a commanding 298/7, powered by Shafali Verma’s 87 and Deepti Sharma’s quickfire 58. South Africa, despite a fighting 101 from skipper Laura Wolvaardt, were bundled out for 246, with Deepti starring again with a five-wicket haul to seal India’s maiden ICC title. “I can proudly say I was there the day the Indian women won the World Cup,” Gavaskar said, beaming with pride. “This win will be a turning point for women’s cricket in India.” 1983 🤝 2025 Sunil Gavaskar shares a special message for #HarmanpreetKaur and the #WomenInBlue for bringing the coveted World Cup trophy home! ? #CWC25 pic.twitter.com/WPw8pwuC8G — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) November 4, 2025 The 1983 World Cup-winning legend even drew a playful parallel with his own iconic moment four decades ago, when he cheekily held on to the match-winning ball. “I jumped with joy when Harmanpreet took that catch to win it. I hope she keeps that ball, just like I’ve kept mine from 1983, the one that hit Michael Holding’s leg guards before Dickie Bird raised his finger to give India the win,” he laughed. Gavaskar also applauded captain Harmanpreet Kaur’s leadership and energy, calling her celebration “pure joy.” “Many, many congratulations to Harmanpreet and her gang, because it really was a gang-like effort. The way they fought back and lifted that trophy was absolutely terrific,” he said. “And also to Harmanpreet, special congratulations for the way she danced. No need to copy any footballers, you do your own thing.” The batting legend signed off with heartfelt praise. “Well done, girls. Very, very proud of you. This is a moment to cherish, a moment to savour — one of the greatest in Indian cricket history. The Indian cricketing community, I’m sure, is very, very proud of you, as also all the Indian cricket fans. God bless you all.”
