In a historic moment for Indian cricket, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a whopping Rs 51 crore reward for the Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian women’s cricket team, their support staff and the national selection committee for winning India’s first-ever ICC Women’s World Cup. The announcement came a day after India defeated South Africa by 52 runs in a thrilling final at Navi Mumbai’s DY Patil Stadium, clinching their maiden global trophy.
“As a token of appreciation, the BCCI will reward the Indian women’s cricket team with a cash award of Rs 51 crore for their remarkable performance, dedication, and contribution to the nation’s sporting glory,” BCCI official Jayesh Saikia said. The Board also highlighted the pivotal role of Jay Shah, who served as BCCI secretary and is now ICC chairman, in promoting women’s cricket through domestic expansion, elite competitions, and enhanced infrastructure. Under his stewardship, the ICC increased prize money for the Women’s World Cup, signalling a push for parity with male cricketers.
The victory has triggered a wave of rewards and celebrations across the country. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced Rs 1 crore for pacer Renuka Singh Thakur from Shimla’s Rohru area, praising her match-winning bowling in the final. Madhya Pradesh followed suit, awarding Kranti Goud Rs 1 crore for her crucial role in the tournament.
The accolades didn’t stop at cash. Surat-based industrialist and Rajya Sabha MP Govind Dholakia pledged diamond jewellery and rooftop solar panels for each player as a token of appreciation, calling the gesture a way to ensure that the light the cricketers bring to the nation continues to shine sustainably.
On the field, India’s triumph was powered by stellar performances. Deepti Sharma’s all-round brilliance, five-wicket haul, and 58 crucial runs in the final earned her the player-of-the-tournament award. Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, determined to rewrite history after past heartbreaks, inspired the team with her leadership and relentless drive. Amanjot Kaur’s sensational one-handed catch of South African skipper Laura Wolvaardt sealed the victory, while Jemimah Rodrigues’ unbeaten 127 in the semifinal over Australia underscored India’s grit.
The win has sparked nationwide celebrations, with politicians and fans alike pouring out their congratulations. Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini, and other leaders lauded the team’s determination, with citizens from the players’ hometowns bursting into festivities.
