Women's World Cup 2025: 'This will inspire generations of girls to take up the sport' - Kohli, Anushka Sharma celebrate Indian team's historic triumph

Published - 03 Nov 2025, 14:01 IST | Updated - 03 Nov 2025, 14:48 IST

Harmanpreet Kaur-led India scripted history on Sunday, November 2, at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai as they defeated South Africa by 52 runs to triumph in the Women's World Cup 2025. After finishing second best in 2005 and 2017, India ended their long wait for the ultimate silverware at the marquee event.

After India's sensational victory, the legendary Virat Kohli and his wife, Anushka Sharma, congratulated the team and support staff for their monumental achievement.

Former India captain Kohli, who won the men's ODI World Cup in 2011, said that he was proud of the team and opined that the win would inspire generations of girls to take up the sport in India.

"The girls have created history and I couldn’t be more proud as an Indian to see the hard work of so many years come to life finally. They deserve all the applause and a big congratulations to Harman and the whole team for achieving this historic feat. Also congratulations to the whole squad and the management for the work behind the scenes. Well done india. Enjoy the moment to the fullest. This will inspire generations of girls to take up the sport in our country. Jai hind," wrote Kohli on Instagram.

Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma also expressed her elation, as she wrote a heartfelt message, congratulating the Women in Blue for their monumental achievement.

“Champions of the world! Super women have made this historic moment happen! What a game! Love you girls," Anushka wrote.

After registering a stunning win against defending champions Australia by chasing down a 339-run target in the semi-finals, a confident Indian side posted 298/7 in the first innings against South Africa on Sunday.

Watch photo showing 2013 and 2025 WC final crowd difference

Shafali Verma and Deepti Sharma slammed important half-centuries before combining with the ball and picking up seven wickets in the second innings. The Proteas were dismissed for 246, with captain Laura Wolvaardt scoring a gritty century.