India’s Women Clinch First ICC World Cup Title — But A Hero Misses the Medal

India Creates History in Women’s Cricket

India’s women’s cricket team etched their name into the record books by winning the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, defeating South Africa by 52 runs in a thrilling final. This victory marks India’s maiden World Cup title, sparking nationwide celebrations and jubilation among millions of fans.

The team displayed an all-round performance, with the bowlers sealing the win in the final overs. The triumph was hailed as the beginning of a new era for women’s cricket in India, symbolising both grit and unity.

Pratika Rawal’s Silent Sacrifice

Amidst the celebrations, however, emerged a story that tugged at the nation’s heartstrings. Pratika Rawal, India’s second-highest run-scorer of the tournament with 308 runs in ten matches, was left without a winner’s medal due to a technicality in ICC’s award rules.

Rawal, who scored a century and a crucial fifty in earlier matches, was injured during the semi-final and ruled out of the final. Her place was taken by Shafali Verma, who was part of the winning eleven in the finale.

According to ICC regulations, only players present in the official final match-day squad are eligible for medals during the presentation ceremony — a rule that denied Rawal her deserved memento despite her critical contributions to the campaign.

Team Spirit Shines Through the Pain

Though heartbroken, Rawal joined her teammates in the stands to cheer them on during the final. As India lifted the coveted trophy, she shared in their joy rather than her personal disappointment.

In a moving gesture, team captain Harmanpreet Kaur and teammates invited Rawal to join the celebrations, and wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh was seen wrapping her arm around Rawal as they took photos together.

The emotional moment that melted millions of hearts came when injured pacer Renuka Reddy, also recovering from a leg injury, stood up from her wheelchair and danced bhangra with Rawal and the team. The sight symbolised unity beyond statistics or medals.

Fans and Experts React

Fans across the country flooded social media with emotional tributes for Rawal, calling her the “unsung hero” of India’s World Cup journey. Former cricketers including Mithali Raj and Jhulan Goswami praised her humility and resilience, urging the ICC to reconsider the rigid medal policy.

“Medals don’t define contribution — heart does. Pratika Rawal will forever be part of India’s golden moment,” tweeted former captain Mithali Raj.

A Victory Beyond the Trophy

While the team celebrated the ₹5 crore prize money and a long-awaited triumph, Rawal’s story gave the victory a deeper meaning — one of sacrifice, perseverance, and unity.

As India rejoices, Pratika Rawal’s journey remains a reminder that true champions shine not just on the field, but in their spirit to rise above adversity.