South Africa Wins Toss, Opts to Bowl First in ODI Women’s World Cup Final

In a highly anticipated showdown, South Africa has won the toss and elected to bowl first against India in the final of the ODI Women’s World Cup 2025. The match is taking place at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai. Originally scheduled to start at 15:00 IST, the game faced a delay due to persistent rain, but no overs will be reduced, ensuring a full 50-over match for both teams.

This final marks a significant moment in women’s cricket, as it will crown a new world champion. India, with a history of reaching the finals in 2005 and 2017, is eager to secure its first world title. The team is motivated to overcome past disappointments and is led by the impressive performances of players like Jemimah Rodrigues, who is expected to shine after her match-winning innings of 127 not out against Australia in the semi-finals.

South Africa also enters the final with a strong track record, having made it through the tournament with determination and skill. Skipper Laura Wolvaardt currently holds the title of the top run-scorer in the competition, amassing 470 runs across eight matches at an average of 67.14. This final represents a chance for South Africa to make history and claim their first ODI World Cup title.

Key Players to Watch

As the teams prepare for battle, key players will be under the spotlight. For India, Smriti Mandhana is another standout batswoman, contributing 389 runs in the tournament. Meanwhile, all-rounder Deepti Sharma has made her mark with the ball, sharing the top spot for the most wickets in the tournament, having taken 17 wickets alongside Australia’s Annabel Sutherland.

Both teams have announced their playing elevens ahead of the final, revealing the depth and talent on display.

India’s confirmed playing XI includes:
– Shafali Verma
– Smriti Mandhana
– Jemimah Rodrigues
– Harmanpreet Kaur (C)
– Deepti Sharma
– Richa Ghosh
– Amanjot Kaur
– Radha Yadav
– Kranti Gaud
– Sree Charani
– Renuka Singh Thakur

South Africa’s lineup features:
– Laura Wolvaardt (C)
– Tazmin Brits
– Anneke Bosch
– Sune Luus
– Marizanne Kapp
– Sinalo Jafta
– Chloe Tryon
– Annerie Dercksen
– Nadine De Klerk
– Ayabonga Khaka
– Nonkululeko Mlaba

This final promises to be a thrilling contest, filled with excitement and the potential for historic achievements. Fans around the world are eager to witness the culmination of this prestigious tournament, where both teams will strive for glory on the international stage.