Shafali Verma shines with half-century on return in IND-W vs SA-W World Cup 2025 final; fans say ‘what a wildcard entry’

Shafali Verma made a grand return in the Indian team with a fifty in the final of the ICC Women's World Cup 2025 against South Africa at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Sunday. Omitted from the squad initially, Shafali was recalled as a replacement to injured Pratika Rawal just before the semifinal against Australia.

Although the swashbuckling right-hander fell cheaply against the Australians, the 22-year-old made sure she grabbed the opportunity with both hands when it mattered the most as the Indians were off to a solid start after being put to bat first, following a two-hour delay.

Along with fellow opening partner Smriti Mandhana, Shafali went against the opposition from the onset with a four in the first ball she faced. Shafali completed her fifty with a single off Chloe Tryon in the 18th over in 49 balls. It must be noted that she was out of ODI setup for over a year.

As soon as Shafali crossed her fifty, the social media went abuzz with fans calling her comeback as “wildcard entry”. “Well played Shefali Verma what a wildcard entry we believe in verma also in Asia cup tilak verma has done this now u have to do this for worldcup,” said one user.

“She called back in the team for Semis and Finals and she is delivering the best,” said another. “FIFTY for SHEFALI VERMA in the World Cup final! This is not a drill, this is destiny. #CWC25,” another said. "Peaking at the right time," added another.

Earlier, the match was delayed by two hours due to persistent rains in Navi Mumbai. South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt won the toss and opted to bowl first under overcast conditions. Both teams went unchanged. It must be noted that neither India nor South Africa have won the silverware.

South Africa: Laura Wolvaardt(c), Tazmin Brits, Anneke Bosch, Sune Luus, Marizanne Kapp, Sinalo Jafta(w), Annerie Dercksen, Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Ayabonga Khaka, Nonkululeko Mlaba