Shafali Verma scored her first ODI half-century in three years during the Women's World Cup final on Sunday, guiding India to 106/1 against South Africa at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Opening alongside Smriti Mandhana, the pair built a strong 104-run partnership before Mandhana was dismissed for 45 runs by Chloe Tryon's left-arm spin in the 18th over.
Jemimah Rodrigues, who made a record-breaking 127 runs off 134 balls in the semifinal against Australia, joined Verma as India aimed for their first Women's World Cup title following a rain delay of over an hour.
"Shafali Verma's fifty powered India to a commanding 106/1 position against South Africa in the Women's World Cup final."
"Jemimah Rodrigues, whose record-breaking 127 off 134 deliveries led India's world record chase against Australia in the semifinal, joined Verma at the crease as the hosts pursued their first Women's World Cup championship."
India's solid opening partnership and resilience after the rain delay were key factors in their pursuit of a historic victory.
Summary: Shafali Verma's breakthrough fifty and a strong partnership laid the foundation for India as they chased their first Women's World Cup title against South Africa in a rain-delayed final.