Navi Mumbai witnessed an emotional scene on Sunday night as India captain Harmanpreet Kaur touched BCCI Secretary Jay Shah’s feet while receiving the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup trophy. The gesture — a traditional Indian sign of respect — instantly went viral as the stadium roared in celebration of India’s historic title win over South Africa by 52 runs.
Harmanpreet, who has led India through a transformative phase in women’s cricket, bowed before Shah moments before lifting the trophy, reflecting gratitude and acknowledgment of support behind the scenes. Shah responded by lifting her up and handing over the trophy, marking a symbolic culmination of India’s long wait for a women’s ODI World Cup title.
This triumph comes after years of heartbreak — including runner-up finishes in 2005 and 2017 — and signals a new era for women’s cricket in India.
Jay Shah’s role in women’s cricket development
During Jay Shah’s tenure as BCCI Secretary, multiple significant steps have been taken to strengthen women’s cricket in India. Fans online credited him for structural and financial support to the women’s game, including:
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Bringing the Women’s Premier League (WPL) to reality
The WPL, launched in 2023, has become one of the most high-profile women’s sports leagues globally, creating opportunities and financial security for women cricketers. -
Equal match fee policy
In 2022, the BCCI announced equal match fees for men and women cricketers representing India — a landmark move applauded worldwide. -
Strengthening domestic infrastructure
Expanded domestic calendar, more competitive games, and improved pathways have helped broaden India’s talent pool. -
Encouraging fan participation
Several women’s matches in India, including this World Cup, saw free or heavily-discounted entry to boost attendance — contributing to packed stadiums throughout the tournament. -
Backing Harmanpreet Kaur and the team setup
Through transitions, criticism phases, and big tournaments, leadership continuity was retained — something players have spoken positively about in the past.
These developments, fans argue, have played a crucial role in elevating the women’s game, improving earning opportunities, and building India’s depth — ultimately contributing to this World Cup victory.
A night India will remember
For Harmanpreet, who debuted in the 2009 Women’s ODI World Cup, this triumph completes a 16-year journey. The moment she lifted the trophy with the tricolour draped behind her felt like poetic justice — the realisation of a dream long chased.
From packed stands in Navi Mumbai to emotional celebrations across India, this victory marks more than a sporting achievement — it represents a cultural shift, a new sporting movement, and the beginning of a golden chapter in Indian women’s cricket.
