Is the World Cup Victory a Tribute to All Legends of Women's Cricket?
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Synopsis
Pratika Rawal emphasizes that the Women's ODI World Cup win is a tribute to the team's hard work and the legendary figures who paved the way for women's cricket. This victory not only celebrates current achievements but also inspires future generations of female athletes.
Key Takeaways
- Historic victory celebrates both current and past players.
- Emotional celebrations marked by recognition of legends.
- Future of women's cricket looks promising with increased recognition.
- Inspiration for young girls to pursue sports.
- Team unity and generational connections highlighted.
New Delhi, Nov 7 (NationPress) Indian batter Pratika Rawal expressed that the remarkable triumph in the Women’s ODI World Cup is a celebration not only of the current team's relentless effort but also a tribute to the generations of iconic players who paved the way for women's cricket in the nation.
In the aftermath of the thrilling match at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, where India secured a 52-run victory over South Africa, emotional scenes unfolded as the team presented the trophy to Mithali Raj, Jhulan Goswami, Anjum Chopra, and Reema Malhotra—legendary figures who narrowly missed the title in earlier World Cups.
“During our celebratory round thanking the fans, I noticed Jhulan ma'am in tears, and Mithali ma'am lifting the trophy with pride. It didn't feel as if she hadn't won the trophy; it felt like she had played the match and clinched the final victory today. It was an awe-inspiring moment, showcasing the deep connection this team has across generations,” Pratika shared in an exclusive interview with IANS on Thursday.
Emotional moments continued as Jhulan stood between captain Harmanpreet Kaur and vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, expressing heartfelt gratitude to both. Following her, Mithali raised the trophy high, beaming with joy, surrounded by the squad she once led.
The team also honored Anjum and Reema, with the latter sharing a joyous moment with Harmanpreet by singing the popular Hindi song, ‘Sadda haq, aithe rakh’.
“This victory is a reward for all of us—not just our team but also for the legends who came before. Their sacrifices helped elevate women's cricket, and now they finally see their efforts honored,” Pratika stated.
“It was heartwarming to witness everyone in tears of joy as they celebrated and lifted the trophy. I’ve saved so many pictures from that day on my phone, and I plan to cherish them forever,” she added.
Pratika also discussed the implications of this World Cup victory for the women's cricket ecosystem in India. “This win will undoubtedly propel the growth of women's cricket. It all began with our run to the finals in the 2017 World Cup, which finally gave women the recognition they deserved.
“With this World Cup win, the attention we are receiving will inspire many young girls to pursue sports professionally. It encourages them to convince their parents, saying, ‘Look, they did it too; I want to do it as well.’ I’m thrilled that we are at a stage where we can inspire girls, not just in cricket but in all sports, to reach the highest levels for their country,” she concluded.
Point of View
It is evident that this historic win for the Indian women's cricket team transcends sport. It reflects the culmination of dedication from past icons and the relentless spirit of the current players. This achievement will undoubtedly encourage greater participation in women's sports, fostering a new generation of athletes who will continue to elevate India's standing in the global sports arena.
NationPress
07/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Pratika Rawal say about the World Cup win?
Pratika Rawal believes the Women's ODI World Cup victory is a celebration of not only the current team but also a tribute to the legendary players who laid the groundwork for women's cricket in India.
How did the team honor past players during celebrations?
During the celebrations, the Indian team presented the trophy to legends like Mithali Raj, Jhulan Goswami, Anjum Chopra, and Reema Malhotra, recognizing their contributions to women's cricket.
What impact will this victory have on women's cricket in India?
The victory is expected to significantly boost women's cricket in India, inspiring young girls to pursue sports professionally and encouraging greater recognition for female athletes.
What emotional moments were shared during the celebrations?
Emotional scenes unfolded as Jhulan and Mithali expressed their joy and pride, with tears and laughter shared among the team, creating a memorable atmosphere.
What future does Pratika envision for young female athletes?
Pratika envisions a future where young girls feel empowered to pursue sports, inspired by the current team's success, and able to convince their families to support their dreams.
