Both teams have navigated challenging paths to the final, making the outcome difficult to predict.
South Africa’s journey was marked by inconsistency; five consecutive group-stage wins, including a three-wicket thriller against India, were offset by being bowled out for just 69 and 97 against England and Australia.
Despite the heavy defeat to Australia, they entered the semi-final as underdogs against England but delivered a commanding all-round performance. The victory was spearheaded by Laura Wolvaardt’s exceptional 169 and a devastating 5-20 spell from Marizanne Kapp. The team will once again look to these star players to step up on Sunday.
While Wolvaardt is known for her calm and unflappable demeanour, Kapp is a fiery competitor whose passion is evident with every wicket she takes, often moved to tears during the national anthem even after five World Cups.
For India, the primary challenge will be managing the immense pressure of a home final and recovering emotionally from their intense semi-final victory. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur stressed the need for mental freshness.
“The semi-final was a very high-pressure and intense game,” Kaur said. “We have been talking about how we can be more focused and balanced while staying relaxed. This is the biggest stage and the biggest opportunity for us, playing in a home final. The most important thing is that we have to enjoy this.”
India holds a significant home advantage, having already played three matches at the DY Patil Stadium in this tournament, whereas South Africa has yet to play at the venue.
However, Wolvaardt believes this could also work in her team’s favour. “It’s going to be a very tough game with the whole crowd behind India,” she acknowledged. “But at the same time, that puts a lot of pressure on them. They are expected to win, and I think that plays in our favour. We will have to play some really good cricket, but we’re excited for the opportunity.”
A sell-out crowd is expected, promising an electric atmosphere. While a passionate home crowd can be an intimidating force, South Africa will hope to take inspiration from Australian captain Pat Cummins, who noted in 2023 that there is nothing more satisfying than silencing a packed stadium.
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