India have been crowned the new champions of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup after defeating South Africa by 52 runs in the final, clinching the coveted title for the first time in their history.

The final, held at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, was delayed due to rain, with the toss originally scheduled for 3pm Bangladesh time.

After being sent in to bat, India got off to a flying start with an opening partnership of 104 runs. Shafali Verma led from the front with a commanding 87, while Smriti Mandhana contributed 45. Deepti Sharma’s composed 58 off 58 balls and a quickfire 34 off 24 from Richa Ghosh propelled the hosts to 298 for seven. Ayabonga Khaka was the pick of the South African bowlers, claiming three wickets.

Chasing 299, South Africa stumbled early, losing two wickets for just 62 runs. Tazmin Brits (23), Anneke Bosch (0), and Sune Luus (25) all fell cheaply, while Marizanne Kapp and Nondumiso Shangase also failed to make an impact.

Captain Laura Wolvaardt kept the Proteas in the contest with a magnificent century — her 11th in ODIs — scoring 101 off 98 balls. However, her dismissal to Deepti Sharma ended South Africa’s hopes, as the side was bowled out for 246 in 45.3 overs.

Deepti starred with the ball, taking five wickets for 39 runs — the second-best bowling figures ever in a Women’s World Cup final. Shafali Verma also chipped in with two wickets to complete a brilliant all-round performance.

Before this triumph, only Australia, England, and New Zealand had lifted the Women’s ODI World Cup. India’s historic victory marks the first time the prestigious trophy has come to Asia.