Hyderabad: November 2 is a day to remember in cricket history. The Indian women’s cricket team finally won their first World Cup title after years of close calls. They defeated South Africa by 52 runs in the 2025 Women’s World Cup final, marking a major achievement in the tournament’s 52-year history.
The team’s victory sparked celebrations nationwide. They quickly became heroes and role models for young cricketers across the country. In recognition of this triumph, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a cash reward of 51 crores, along with 40 crores from the International Cricket Council (ICC).
However, Sunil Gavaskar, a cricket legend, offered a word of caution. In his column for Mid-Day, he advised the players not to be disheartened if some of the promised awards don’t arrive. He pointed out that many brands often seek to ride the wave of success for their own gain. “In India, advertisers are quick to jump on the bandwagon and try to promote themselves using your victory,” he wrote.
Gavaskar’s experience comes from being part of the 1983 World Cup-winning team, where many rewards promised to the players were never delivered. He emphasized that the media shares part of the blame for publicizing these lofty promises without realizing they were being used. “Be careful,” he warned the current team. “Don’t fret about those trying to promote themselves off your success.”
Turning to statistics, a recent survey showed that over 70% of Indians feel inspired by the women’s team, viewing them as positive role models. This surge in support has also led to increased viewership for women’s cricket matches, suggesting a broader shift in how women’s sports are perceived in the country. In fact, research from the International Cricket Council indicates that women’s cricket has seen a 300% increase in global popularity over the last five years.
The 2025 victory not only celebrates individual talent but also highlights the growing respect and recognition for women’s sports. As the country embraces this shift, it’s essential for supporters to advocate for the rights and rewards that these athletes deserve to ensure a brighter future for women’s cricket.
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