The secret behind Shafali Verma’s match-winning performance in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup final against South Africa? A timely dose of inspiration from none other than cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar. Verma, a last-minute inclusion in the squad due to an injury to regular opener Pratika Rawal, unleashed a spectacular 87-run innings that propelled India to their maiden Women’s Cricket World Cup title.
This outstanding display marked a significant comeback for the aggressive batter, who had recently been dropped from the ODI setup and managed only 10 runs in the semi-final. Post-match, Verma shared how seeing Tendulkar at the ground provided an invaluable psychological edge. “When I saw him (Tendulkar), it gave me an incredible boost. I kept talking to him and he kept giving me confidence,” she revealed. “He is the master of cricket, and we keep getting inspired just looking at him.”
Verma also made a significant impact with the ball, clinching two vital wickets during South Africa’s run chase. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur’s bold decision to give Verma crucial bowling overs proved to be a game-changing strategy. Kaur cited a ‘gut feeling,’ backed by Verma’s confidence, as the reason for the selection, highlighting the risk involved but the potential reward. Verma’s quick succession of wickets was the turning point that secured the championship.
Despite her time away from the team, Verma insisted her self-belief never wavered. “It was difficult but I had confidence in myself, that if I can stay calm, I could achieve everything,” she stated. Her clear objective was to win for the team, a goal achieved through meticulous planning and execution, bolstered by the support of her experienced teammates. Their advice to simply play her game was the clarity needed for this unforgettable World Cup victory.