The Indian women’s World Cup is on the brink of scripting history as they prepare to face South Africa in the final at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. The Women in Blue are still waiting to lift the trophy and this will be their maiden title. But there are parallels being drawn to India’s iconic 1983 men’s World Cup win. All the fans across the country are also waiting for the victory as history will be created if India wins the cup on their home soil.
Ahead of the big day, the squad received guidance from none other than the World Cup winning legend Kapil Dev. Speaking to Star Sports in a promo, he praised Harmanpreet Kaur for her calm and composed performance in the semi-final against Australia. Kaur scored 89 off 88 balls and helped India win.
“A lot of people compare them to ‘83, and I don’t think there should ever be a comparison,” said the 1983 winning captain. “These girls are much better, very smart, and the way they played cricket, it felt like they took the level of cricket to the next level,” Kapil Dev said
This is a first-ever appearance by South Africa in a Women’s World Cup final, while India will be playing their third. A new name is guaranteed on the trophy, setting up a high-voltage showdown between two hungry sides for glory. However, the weather may just turn out to be a spoilsport. Rain threats loom large over Navi Mumbai, with forecasts indicating that there could be interruptions at least through the afternoon. There is a reserve day in store, but the officials will surely try to get the match over on Sunday itself. As many as continuous showers on Friday and Saturday spoiled the final preparations of both teams.
