Opener Shafali Verma on Sunday reflected on the challenges she faced over the past year, saying consistent hard work and focus helped her bounce back and play a key role in India's historic World Cup win .

Picked as a replacement for the injured Pratika Rawal, the 21-year-old was named Player of the Final for scoring 87 runs and taking 2 for 36 in India's 52-run win over South Africa.

"The last year was tough for me. I faced many struggles, but I kept working hard and was rewarded by God for my effort," Shafali told reporters after a felicitation event in Rohtak, Haryana.

Shafali was called into the Indian squad on the eve of the semi-final against Australia . Though she could not make a big impact in that match, she delivered in the final, guiding India to a commanding total and

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