Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 11:54am on 02 Nov 2025,Sunday Sports
ndia began their Women's World Cup final chase against South Africa at DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai, reaching 22/0 in 4 overs after South Africa won the toss and opted to bowl first. Following Marizanne Kapp's maiden over, Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma counterattacked cautiously. Shafali found rhythm with cracking cover drives against Kapp, while Ayabonga Khaka conceded 15 runs in two overs. Captain Laura Wolvaardt brought the keeper up after Shafali walked down the track. Despite heavy pre-toss rain, the outfield remained fast. Sachin Tendulkar presented the trophy pre-match, echoing his 2023 semifinal appearance. No overs were lost despite overcast conditions. The match started at 5 PM IST with the pitch slightly tacky post-rain.(PC: BCCI & Cric Today)