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India's World Cup glory turns emotional as team pays tribute to Mithali Raj 

Arunima Purohit

Mithali Raj with the World Cup trophy [Source: @CricCrazyJohns/X]Mithali Raj with the World Cup trophy [Source: @CricCrazyJohns/X]

On November 2, the Indian women's cricket team won the ICC Women's World Cup 2025 for the first time with a nail-biting 52-run win over South Africa in Navi Mumbai. But what added layers of joy to the occasion was the very next thing that happened after the triumph. Harmanpreet Kaur and the team handed over the World Cup trophy to former player Mithali Raj.

Team India pays tribute to Mithali Raj

When the captain received the trophy and the last dances were underway, the entire Indian squad called Mithali Raj to come and hold the shining trophy. Mithali, India's longest-serving captain, beamed a smile, but her eyes were reflecting the toil and struggle of many years. She held the trophy for a brief moment, looking content. 

The act was more a gesture of acknowledgment than gratitude since it was a recognition of a very long journey, one that began at a time when women's cricket in India was fighting for its place and gaining respect. 

Watch the video here. 

A new chapter begins for Indian Women's cricket

This World Cup triumph marks a new era for women's cricket in India. The team, led by the likes of Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur, not only made the dreams of former players come true but also ignited a passion in the hearts of numerous girls who now can't resist the urge to pick up a bat or ball.

The fans all over the nation considered the players' act as the most fitting tribute to Mithali Raj, who, in their view, was the pillar of the sport that exists today. The night at Navi Mumbai wasn't just about winning a World Cup; it was about celebrating a legacy that will inspire generations to come.