India are cruising in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 final in Navi Mumbai as Shafali Verma continues her dominant run, taking full advantage of every scoring opportunity. One such moment came in the 26th over when Ayabonga Khaka’s delivery was declared a no-ball, handing Shafali a free-hit amid loud cheers from the packed DY Patil Stadium.
Why was the delivery given a no-ball?
The umpire signaled front-foot overstepping after Khaka went past the line during her delivery stride. As per the rules, any part of the front foot failing to land behind the crease results in a no-ball.
Khaka bowled a slower leg-cutter on a length which Shafali tried to loft over mid-off but mistimed it — only for replays to confirm the overstep, giving India a crucial free-hit.
Right after the no-ball call, South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt was seen in conversation with umpire Eloise Sheridan — likely discussing the field setup for the upcoming free-hit.
Match Situation
At the moment of the incident:
INDW 161/1 in 26.5 overs
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Shafali Verma: 84*(74)
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Jemimah Rodrigues: 21*(30)
India lost Smriti Mandhana (45) earlier, but Shafali’s aggressive stroke-play and Jemimah’s stability have kept India in firm control. South Africa opted to bowl first, but their attack has struggled to contain India’s scoring, with Shafali leading the charge in front of a roaring home crowd.
