'Calmed my nerves,' Shafali Verma on World Cup final knock
What's the story
Indian cricketer Shafali Verma has opened up about her thought process during the ICC Women's World Cup final. The 21-year-old, who was a replacement for injured Pratika Rawal, scored an impressive 87 runs and took two wickets in the match. Her all-round performance helped India defeat South Africa by 52 runs and win their first-ever ODI World Cup title in Navi Mumbai.
Personal struggles
'Rewarded by God for my effort'
Shafali reflected on her tough journey over the past year, saying she faced a lot of struggles but kept working hard. "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 effort," she said at a felicitation event in Rohtak.
Game strategy
Focused on strategy, executed it well: Shafali
Recalling her mindset in the title clash, Shafali said she was initially nervous but calmed herself down and focused on executing her plans. "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," she said.
Team spirit
No regrets about missing century, says Shafali
Shafali stressed that once she got going, she stopped thinking about personal milestones. "I have no regret about missing the century. The only thought was that we have to give it all in those seven hours for our country," she said. The young star also credited her family's unwavering support and urged young girls to believe in themselves and work hard.
Inspirational encounter
Meeting PM Modi was very special, says Shafali
Shafali said meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the victory was very inspiring. "He spent nearly two hours with us and motivated everyone. It was very special," she said. The young cricketer is now looking forward to her meeting with Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on November 12.
Knock
Shafali Verma hammered 87 in Women's World Cup final
Shafali smashed a solid 87-run knock for India in the final of the ICC Women's World Cup 2025 on November 2. Shafali was looking set for a brilliant hundred, but perished to a loose shot in the 28th over. Shafali's 87 came off 78 balls. She hit 2 sixes and 7 fours. With this knock, got to 741 runs from 31 matches at 24.70. She got to her career-best score. She also hit her 5th WODI fifty.