As india prepares to take on South Africa in the Women’s world cup 2025 Final at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, memories of 2005 and 2017 still linger. Twice before, the indian women’s team has come agonizingly close to lifting the world cup trophy — only to fall just short.
Now, with a golden chance to make history, it’s crucial to look back at those heartbreaks and understand what lessons india can carry into the final.
🏏 2005: The Beginning of a Dream
The 2005 Women’s world cup final in south africa marked India’s first-ever appearance in a world cup title match.
Led by Mithali Raj, the team exceeded expectations by beating stronger sides like new zealand to reach the final.
However, when it mattered most, the women in blue struggled under pressure against Australia, getting bowled out for just 117 runs, which the Aussies chased down comfortably.
🧠 What india Can Learn:
· Handle pressure early: india lost quick wickets in the first 10 overs, setting the tone for defeat. A steady start is vital in finals.
· Big-match temperament: Many players were appearing in their first major final — experience and composure make all the difference.
· Mental toughness over technical perfection: Finals are won as much in the mind as on the field.
“We were overawed by the occasion. The learning was that big matches demand calm minds,” Mithali raj had once reflected on the 2005 loss.
💔 2017: The Heartbreak at Lord’s
Fast forward to July 23, 2017, at the Lord’s cricket Ground — the “home of cricket.”
India, under the leadership of Harmanpreet Kaur and inspired by her iconic 171* against australia in the semifinal, entered the final with belief and momentum.
Chasing 229 runs against England, india seemed poised for victory at 191/3, but a sudden collapse saw them lose 7 wickets for 28 runs, falling short by just 9 runs.
⚡ What india Can Learn:
· Finishers win finals: Despite a strong start, india lacked composure in the lower order to finish the job.
· Managing nerves: Pressure in crunch situations led to rash shots and run-outs — calmness under fire is crucial.
· Fielding intensity: Dropped catches and misfields proved costly. championship teams must be flawless in execution.
“We were just a few runs away from changing the history of indian cricket,” said Harmanpreet later, recalling the pain of that loss.
💪 2025: The Moment of Redemption
This time, india has a perfect opportunity to rewrite history.
Under Harmanpreet Kaur’s leadership, the squad blends experience and youth — with stalwarts like Smriti Mandhana, Deepti Sharma, and Richa Ghosh bringing balance to the side.
Key lessons from the past will guide them:
· Stay calm, no matter the scoreboard.
· Build partnerships and protect wickets.
· Focus on small moments — good fielding, smart bowling changes, and strike rotation can define the outcome.
🌟 What victory Would Mean
If india lifts the trophy today, it will mark the culmination of two decades of growth in women’s cricket.
From limited resources in 2005 to full stadiums in 2025, the journey has been inspirational.
A win today would not only avenge past heartbreaks but also ignite a new era for women’s cricket in India, inspiring millions of young girls to dream bigger.
🏆 Final Word: From Lessons to Legacy
The 2005 and 2017 finals were painful yet powerful teachers.
This time, india has the skill, belief, and resilience to turn those lessons into triumph.
As the women in Blue step onto the field in Navi Mumbai, one thing is clear — this is not just another final; it’s a chance to complete an unfinished story.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
click and follow Indiaherald WhatsApp channel