New Delhi, Nov 6 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik has praised the Harmanpreet Kaur-led team for their landmark success at the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup, emphasizing that they truly deserve all the accolades and recognition they are receiving.

The team, under Kaur's captaincy, secured the trophy for the first time by defeating South Africa by 52 runs in the final that took place at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Following their victory, the team visited Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu in New Delhi.

“The girls absolutely deserve every bit of appreciation they are getting. They have put in immense effort alongside their support staff, including Amol Muzumdar, Munish Bali, and Aavishkar Salvi. I am truly delighted for them,” Karthik stated.

“This is indeed a pivotal moment in the history of cricket. Anyone who witnessed the 1983 victory will remember the Indian team’s meeting with then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Today, it’s the same with Modi. I’m thrilled to have witnessed this momentous occasion,” Karthik shared in an exclusive conversation with IANS during the upcoming Hong Kong Sixes tournament.

As a member of the commentary team for the final, Karthik sensed something special from the beginning. “From the outset, I recall doing the pitch report and interacting with several coaches and players who were filled with excitement.”

“This is a breakthrough moment in women's cricket - something never accomplished before, and they have worked tirelessly for this achievement. Over the years, these individuals have dedicated themselves to realizing their dreams,” he noted.

“There are 15 young women who are now world champions, and during the prize distribution, it was heartwarming to see how former cricketers celebrated and took pride in the girls' accomplishments. This reflects the struggles they have faced and the joy of witnessing the progress of Indian women's cricket.”

Karthik concluded by highlighting a noticeable change in the perception of women’s cricket throughout the tournament, especially during the knockout stages. “I believe there’s a significant shift in how women's cricket is received. The semi-finals and finals in Navi Mumbai were packed, and the viewership was impressive both digitally and on television.”

“The events of a few days ago are set to transform the landscape of women's cricket. Countless young girls across the nation will feel inspired to pick up a bat or ball and aspire to achieve what these champions have done.”

Catch the Hong Kong Super Sixes Cricket League 2025 - Day 1 - India vs Pakistan on 7th November 2025 at 1:05 PM IST live on Sony Sports Ten 5 SD & HD.