A consolidated team effort led India to their maiden Women’s World Cup title, defeating South Africa by 52 runs in the final at DY Patil Stadium, here on Sunday night.

South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt’s dismissal in the 42nd over, followed by a dismissal of Chloe Tryon (9) in the same over, sealed the fate of the match as the visitors were eight down with 78 needed off 48 balls.

Nadine de Klerk’s late resistance could not steer the side over the line as India bundled out the Proteas for 246 in 45.3 overs to script history in front of passionate home spectators.

For India, Deepti Sharma led the attack with figures of 5 for 39, while Shafali Verma chipped in with two crucial wickets.

Shafali Verma made a crucial impact with the ball in the summit clash, striking twice in quick succes

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