Navi Mumbai: A last-minute call-up turned into a historic moment for India as Shafali Verma’s inclusion in the Indian squad proved to be a masterstroke, helping the Women in Blue lift their maiden ICC Women’s ODI World Cup title. India defeated South Africa comprehensively by 52 runs in a dominant all-round display at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Sunday.

Verma, rightfully declared Player of the Match, delivered with both bat and ball, cementing her status as the star of the final. Her exploits with the ball saw her catch and bowl Sune Luus (25) and dismiss Marizanne Kapp caught behind, leaving South Africa struggling at 123-4 in just 22.1 overs.

With the bat, Verma scripted history as India’s opening batter, scoring 87 off 78 deliveries – the highest individual score by an Indian in a Women’s World Cup final, surpassing Punam Raut’s 86 in 2017. Her innings laid the foundation for India’s total of 298/7, supported by crucial contributions from Deepti Sharma and Richa Ghosh.

The opening partnership with Smriti Mandhana set the tone for India’s innings. The duo combined caution with aggression, reaching fifty in just 6.3 overs and adding 104 runs before Mandhana was dismissed for 45 by Chloe Tryon.

Verma, who was not part of India’s original World Cup squad, was drafted in as a replacement for Pratika Rawal, sidelined by an ankle injury. Speaking ahead of the semifinals against Australia, Verma said: “Of course, what happened with Pratika as a sportsperson, seeing that does not feel good. No one wants any player to go through such an injury. But I believe God has sent me here to do something good. My father, my family -- everyone was very happy. I am also really happy to be back with the team. It is a very good opportunity for me, and if I get to play, I will give my best.”

Before her recall, Verma had last played an ODI for India against New Zealand in October last year and had scored 644 runs in 29 innings at an average of 23.00. Her strong form in the T20Is this year and a fine Women’s Premier League season with Delhi Capitals had hinted at her potential, which she realised on the grandest stage.

Harmanpreet Kaur’s bold decision to include Verma in the playing XI paid rich dividends, turning a setback into India’s crowning glory in the Women’s ODI World Cup. (With inputs from Agencies)