5 eerie parallels between India's 1983 and 2025 World Cup campaigns: Signs history may finally repeatCrickit

QUICKREADS

Cricket
swipe-icon Swipe up for the next story
Kapil Dev with the 1983 World Cup trophy, Harmanpreet Kaur with the 2025 World Cup trophy

5 eerie parallels between India's 1983 and 2025 World Cup campaigns: Signs history may finally repeat

In 2025, Harmanpreet Kaur's Indian women's cricket team aims to break their title drought, mirroring the historic 1983 men's World Cup win. Despite facing challenges, including early defeats, they surged to the finals, defeating Australia in the semi-finals. With a pivotal performance by Jemimah Rodrigues and a resilient spirit, they hope to claim their first Women’s World Cup against South Africa on November 2.

Pratika Rawal celebrating post India's win in the Women's ODI World Cup 2025

Injured Pratika Rawal joins Team India in a wheelchair, teammates lift her in celebration of iconic World Cup triumph

Shafali Verma stepped in for the injured Pratika Rawal in the Women's World Cup final, scoring 87 runs and taking key wickets to lead India to victory over South Africa. Despite her absence, Rawal celebrated with her team, having contributed significantly throughout the tournament. This historic win marked India's first World Cup title, triumphing after a challenging campaign.

Indian players celebrate with the trophy during the presentation ceremony after winning the ICC Women's World Cup 2025.

‘This is just the beginning’: Harmanpreet Kaur’s powerful vow after leading India to historic World Cup glory

The Indian women's cricket team, led by captain Harmanpreet Kaur, secured their first World Cup title on November 3, 2025, ending a nearly 50-year wait since their inaugural match in 1976. Kaur emphasizes the importance of sustained excellence, aiming to build a champion team. India triumphed over South Africa by 52 runs, showcasing strong performances from Shafali Verma and Deepti Sharma.

India's Shafali Verma (L) celebrates with her team captain Harmanpreet Kaur after taking the wicket of South Africa's Marizanne Kapp during the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 one-day international (ODI) final match between India and South Africa at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on November 2, 2025. (Photo by Punit PARANJPE / AFP) / -- IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE -- (AFP)

On the biggest stage, Shafali seizes her moment

Shafali Verma, initially overlooked for the World Cup, redeemed herself with a stellar performance in the final, scoring 87 runs and taking two wickets. Her contributions, including a record for the youngest player to score a fifty in a World Cup final, showcased her talent and resilience, solidifying her place in the team and delighting fans.

Navi Mumbai, Nov 02 (ANI): India Women's Shafali Verma, Harmanpreet Kaur and teammates celebrate the wicket of South Africa Women's Marizanne Kapp during their ICC Women's World Cup 2025 final match at Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, in Navi Mumbai on Sunday. (ANI Photo) (Surjeet Yadav)

Shafali, Deepti the stars as India crowned World Cup champs

In a thrilling Women’s ODI World Cup final, India clinched their first title with a 52-run victory over South Africa at DY Patil Stadium. Amanjot Kaur’s crucial catch of Laura Wolvaardt marked a pivotal moment, while Shafali Verma's explosive 87 helped set a strong foundation for India. Deepti Sharma excelled with 5/39, sealing South Africa's fate.

Amanjot Kaur juggled the catch of Laura Wolvaardt before finally taking it.

Amanjot Kaur's catch that swung the game for India: Juggles hearts of a billion fans before sending back Laura Wolvaardt

In the Women's ODI World Cup final, Amanjot Kaur's crucial catch of South African skipper Laura Wolvaardt sparked celebration among the Indian team. Earlier, India set a strong total of 298 runs, with notable contributions from Shafali Verma and Deepti Sharma. Wolvaardt's century posed a challenge, but Kaur's catch shifted the momentum towards India, leading them closer to victory.

Indian cricketer Rohit Sharma during the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 final match between India and South Africa at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai

Rohit Sharma’s surprise presence in Women’s World Cup final sends decibel levels soaring: ‘When India cross that line…’

Former India captain Rohit Sharma made a surprise visit to the DY Patil Stadium to support the Indian women's team in the Women’s World Cup final against South Africa. Seated with family and cricket legends, Rohit enjoyed the match, reflecting on his past experiences in World Cup finals. India posted a strong score of 298 for seven.

Shafali Verma plays a shot during the ICC Women's World Cup final ODI cricket match between India Women and South Africa Women.

Shafali Verma becomes youngest batter in 52 years of World Cup history to…; breaks Virender Sehwag's record

Shafali Verma made history in the Women’s ODI World Cup final, becoming the youngest player to score a fifty at 21 years and 278 days. She scored 87 runs, helping India post 298 runs. Verma surpassed the previous record held by Jessica Duffin and even eclipsed Virender Sehwag’s mark for men’s ODI World Cup finals.

Shafali Verma plays a shot during the ICC Women's World Cup 2025 final against South Africa Women.

R Ashwin’s tweet ages in seconds as Shafali Verma gets dismissed right after his praise

Shafali Verma's impressive 87 off 78 helped India set a strong total of 297 in the Women’s ODI World Cup final against South Africa. Her partnership with Smriti Mandhana calmed nerves, while Deepti Sharma's half-century further bolstered the innings. Despite falling short of a century, Verma's performance validated India's selection strategy, putting them in a commanding position.

India pacer Arshdeep Singh appeals as Australia's Marcus Stoinis looks on in the third T20I at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart on Sunday. (AFP)

Arshdeep, Washington give India a Hobart high

India leveled the T20I series against Australia with a five-wicket win in Hobart. Arshdeep Singh took 3/35, while Washington Sundar scored 49 off 23 balls, helping India chase down 186 runs with nine balls to spare. Australia's Tim David scored 74, but India's bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah, managed to restrict the total effectively.

Smriti Mandhana plays a shot against South Africa during the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 final.

Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma redefine history: Achieve what never was done in Indian cricket before

Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma set a new record for the highest opening partnership for India in a World Cup knockout match, scoring 104 runs in the Women's ODI final against South Africa. This surpasses the previous record of 90 runs set by Navjot Singh Sidhu and Sachin Tendulkar in the men's ODI World Cup.

Gautam Gambhir and Jasrpit Bumrah cheer India’s women from Hobart dressing room

Gautam Gambhir, Bumrah glued to screen in Hobart dressing room to watch India in Women’s World Cup final during 3rd T20I

In Hobart, the Indian men's cricket team focused on leveling their T20I series while simultaneously supporting the women's team in the World Cup final against South Africa. Head coach Gautam Gambhir and players watched intently as India aimed for their first title. Meanwhile, India successfully chased 187 runs, leveling the series at 1-1.

Shubman Gill and Sanju Samson in T20Is for India.

Shubman Gill continues to give minimal returns as T20I opener: How long will Sanju Samson be ignored

As India gears up to defend their T20 World Cup title in 2026, Shubman Gill's inconsistent T20I performance raises concerns about his place in the team. With just 170 runs from ten innings since his return, he struggles against quality bowling. Sanju Samson's superior stats suggest he may be a more viable option for the top order, prompting a strategic decision for the upcoming tournament.

India's captain Harmanpreet Kaur, left, and South Africa's captain Laura Wolvaardt during the toss before the Women's World Cup final match

Harmanpreet equals India’s unfortunate 43-year-old Women’s World Cup record, but gains statistical edge vs South Africa

In the delayed Women's World Cup final, South Africa won the toss and chose to bowl against India at DY Patil Sports Academy. India has struggled with tosses, losing eight out of nine games this tournament. Despite rain interruptions, the match is set to start with no overs lost. South Africa is competing in their first final, while India aims for victory after defeating Australia in the semifinals.

India A's captain Rishabh Pant with teammates after India A's win on the last day of the first unofficial test match of a series between India A and South Africa A

Rishabh Pant’s 90, late-order grit carry India A to 3-wicket win over South Africa A

India A secured a thrilling three-wicket victory over South Africa A in the first four-day match, led by skipper Rishabh Pant's impressive 90. Chasing a target of 275, India A overcame an early setback, thanks to solid contributions from Pant and Ayush Badoni. The win puts India A ahead in the two-match series, with the second match scheduled next Thursday.

IPL 2026 auction to be held overseas

IPL auction set for a twist as BCCI eyes overseas venue with Abu Dhabi leading the Gulf race: Report

The BCCI is considering hosting the IPL auction in the Gulf, with Abu Dhabi as a potential frontrunner, amidst challenges in finding a suitable venue in India due to festival overlaps. This would mark the third consecutive year the auction is held overseas. An official announcement is expected before November 15, coinciding with player trade discussions, notably involving Sanju Samson.

Story Saved
Saved Articles
Following
My Reads
Sign out
Get App
crown-icon
Subscribe Now!
.affilate-product { padding: 12px 10px; border-radius: 4px; box-shadow: 0 0 6px 0 rgba(64, 64, 64, 0.16); background-color: #fff; margin: 0px 0px 20px; } .affilate-product #affilate-img { width: 110px; height: 110px; position: relative; margin: 0 auto 10px auto; box-shadow: 0px 0px 0.2px 0.5px #00000017; border-radius: 6px; } #affilate-img img { max-width: 100%; max-height: 100%; position: absolute; top: 50%; left: 50%; transform: translate(-50%, -50%); } .affilate-heading { font-size: 16px; color: #000; font-family: "Lato",sans-serif; font-weight:700; margin-bottom: 15px; } .affilate-price { font-size: 24px; color: #424242; font-family: 'Lato', sans-serif; font-weight:900; } .affilate-price del { color: #757575; font-size: 14px; font-family: 'Lato', sans-serif; font-weight:400; margin-left: 10px; text-decoration: line-through; } .affilate-rating .discountBadge { font-size: 12px; border-radius: 4px; font-family: 'Lato', sans-serif; font-weight:400; color: #ffffff; background: #fcb72b; line-height: 15px; padding: 0px 4px; display: inline-flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; min-width: 63px; height: 24px; text-align: center; margin-left: 10px; } .affilate-rating .discountBadge span { font-family: 'Lato', sans-serif; font-weight:900; margin-left: 5px; } .affilate-discount { display: flex; justify-content: space-between; align-items: end; margin-top: 10px } .affilate-rating { font-size: 13px; font-family: 'Lato', sans-serif; font-weight:400; color: black; display: flex; align-items: center; } #affilate-rating-box { width: 48px; height: 24px; color: white; line-height: 17px; text-align: center; border-radius: 2px; background-color: #508c46; white-space: nowrap; display: inline-flex; justify-content: center; align-items: center; gap: 4px; margin-right: 5px; } #affilate-rating-box img { height: 12.5px; width: auto; } #affilate-button{ display: flex; flex-direction: column; position: relative; } #affilate-button img { width: 58px; position: absolute; bottom: 42px; right: 0; } #affilate-button button { width: 101px; height: 32px; font-size: 14px; cursor: pointer; text-transform: uppercase; background: #00b1cd; text-align: center; color: #fff; border-radius: 4px; font-family: 'Lato',sans-serif; font-weight:900; padding: 0px 16px; display: inline-block; border: 0; } @media screen and (min-width:1200px) { .affilate-product #affilate-img { margin: 0px 20px 0px 0px; } .affilate-product { display: flex; position: relative; } .affilate-info { width: calc(100% - 130px); min-width: calc(100% - 130px); display: flex; flex-direction: column; justify-content: space-between; } .affilate-heading { margin-bottom: 8px; } .affilate-rating .discountBadge { position: absolute; left: 10px; top: 12px; margin: 0; } #affilate-button{ flex-direction: row; gap:20px; align-items: center; } #affilate-button img { width: 75px; position: relative; top: 4px; } }