New Delhi, Nov 5 (NationPress) Former captain of the Pakistan cricket team, Rashid Latif, remarked that India’s triumph in the ODI World Cup will serve as an inspiration for many players, both established and upcoming, not just in India but also in places like Pakistan, urging them to strive for excellence and recognition.

He pointed out that countless girls across the globe encounter limitations imposed by their families, preventing them from engaging in sports. Latif noted that India’s significant achievement will play a role in alleviating these challenges.

The Indian team secured a victory over South Africa by 52 wickets during the tournament's final held on Sunday night at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, marking a historic first for women's cricket under the leadership of Harmanpreet Kaur.

“With the resources available to the BCCI, they will undoubtedly enhance the spectacle of women’s cricket. The performance by the Indian women was remarkable. Congratulations from our side. Increased support for the women’s game will yield positive outcomes. Currently, the situation for girls in Pakistan is tough; many face familial restrictions. While similar issues may exist in India, this victory will certainly aid in improving the circumstances,” Latif shared with IANS.

He went on to commend the Indian women's team for their exceptional performance in the recent ODI World Cup and praised their efforts to create history and instigate change within the women’s cricket landscape in the country.

“This win is monumental, and coincidentally, I was able to witness it live. It’s a substantial victory for India, considering men’s cricket has always captured the limelight. Notable figures like Sachin Tendulkar and Rohit Sharma were present, and this will elevate the visibility of women’s cricket in India. This is merely the beginning. They've clinched the World Cup, but there are greater milestones ahead. This victory should not be a solitary achievement,” he added.

Latif elaborated on India’s semi-final victory over Australia and praised Richa Ghosh for her dynamic batting, calling her a match-winner for the team. He also highlighted Deepti Sharma’s five-wicket haul in the final, emphasizing her crucial role in breaking vital partnerships and maintaining pressure on the opponent, which ultimately led to India’s World Cup success.

“It was an incredible chase. Australia had previously set a record against India, which India then surpassed. The opening partnership was ideal, with Richa Ghosh making significant contributions in her short innings that shifted the game’s momentum. While some innings may be brief, the impact of players like her is immense. She was instrumental in securing victories. Australia has long dominated, and it’s rare for them to face a defeat like this,” he mentioned.

“Deepti delivered an outstanding performance, claiming five wickets and breaking a critical partnership that revived India’s chances. South Africa was building momentum, but Deepti took timely wickets that turned the tide, leading India to a substantial victory,” he concluded.