In a highly-anticipated ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 final at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, South Africa Women have won the toss and opted to bowl first. Rain delays dominated the build-up to the toss, but conditions improved enough for the captains to walk out, with a massive crowd roaring in anticipation.
South African skipper Laura Wolvaardt chose to bowl citing overhead conditions and the possibility of dew later in the match. “Bit of rain around and there might be dew later on, hoping for a bit of slippiness early on with all the rain around. We are unchanged from the semis. Big game for us and we are really excited for the opportunity to be here and play in front of a big crowd. We are very confident,” Wolvaardt said.
India captain Harmanpreet Kaur confirmed she would have bowled first as well, given the weather conditions. “We were looking to bowl looking at the overhead conditions,” she said moments after the toss.
After a stop-start afternoon dominated by heavy showers, umpires and groundstaff worked relentlessly to get the surface ready. With fans waiting anxiously and umbrellas up for most of the afternoon, the toss was finally held once the covers came off and players warmed up again.
The atmosphere is electric and both teams are geared up for a blockbuster finale as India eye history at home while South Africa chase their first world title.
South Africa Women Playing XI:
Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tazmin Brits, Anneke Bosch, Sune Luus, Marizanne Kapp, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Annerie Dercksen, Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Ayabonga Khaka, Nonkululeko Mlaba
