The heartbreak of the 2017 Women’s ODI World Cup final still lingers in the minds of Indian cricket fans. Despite a spirited run to the final, India’s hopes were dashed by a late collapse against England. Since then, under the leadership of Harmanpreet Kaur, the Indian women’s cricket team has grown stronger and more consistent—but that elusive World Cup trophy remains out of reach.
With the upcoming 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup set to take place on home soil, fans and former players believe this could finally be India’s moment.
“No Hype, Just Win the Trophy” – Vanitha VR on India’s Best Chance Yet
In an exclusive chat with Cricket.com, former Indian batter Vanitha VR shared her thoughts on the build-up to the World Cup and the expectations from the current squad.
“Stop having that excitement and don’t hype the tournament,” Vanitha said, expressing a sense of cautious optimism. “I’m superstitious, I don’t want to see what happened the last time we played at home. The India team are playing their best cricket at the moment. All the hope is that the team does well.”
Vanitha didn’t mince words about the goal. “We just want the trophy, that’s all we need. U-19 girls are getting it done over the last two years; it is time that our senior team does the same. BCCI has all the trophies now—it is time we have a Women’s ODI World Cup too,” she emphasized.
While preparations are underway, there’s uncertainty surrounding the final’s venue. The Karnataka High Court recently suggested moving high-profile games away from Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium, following recent controversies. Despite the concerns, Vanitha remains hopeful. “I’m sure the team is preparing well, and we have a shot at winning the World Cup. Hopefully, the final happens here in Bengaluru,” she added with fingers crossed.
Young Stars on the Rise: Niki Prasad, Charani & the Future of Indian Women’s Cricket
Looking beyond the World Cup, a transition period is expected for the Indian women’s side, with a wave of young talent ready to take the mantle. Vanitha pointed out two players to watch out for: Charani and Niki Prasad.
“Charani is already up there, someone I always believed would go on to achieve big things,” she said.
But it’s Niki Prasad, India’s U-19 captain who recently led the team to glory in Malaysia, who has Vanitha most excited. “She’s a new talent from Karnataka, someone we had on our [RCB] radar. We saw glimpses of her potential in the WPL too,” Vanitha said.
She also stressed the importance of proper grooming for these young players. “Hopefully, people here in Karnataka will handle her well so she becomes big. Selectors are going to play a crucial role—it is very important.”
As the countdown begins to the ODI World Cup 2025, hosted in India, hopes are high. With home support, experienced leaders, and a growing pool of young stars, the Indian women’s team has its best shot yet at making history.
