Navi Mumbai, November 3, 2025 – The nation is still basking in the glory of the Indian Women's Cricket team's historic World Cup victory over South Africa at the D.Y. Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Sunday. Among the millions celebrating is former cricketer and actress Saiyami Kher, who penned a heartfelt note expressing her emotions and reflecting on her journey with the sport.
Kher, who once represented Maharashtra at the state level, shared her elation and a sense of fulfillment after India clinched its first-ever World Cup title. "Life has come full circle…," she wrote, alluding to her deep connection with cricket, both on and off the field. Speaking to ANI, Kher admitted she couldn't hold back tears when India won the semi-final match against Australia. She had hoped to be in the stadium for the final, and her wish came true as she witnessed the historic win.
Saiyami's association with cricket goes beyond being a fan. She was once on track to play for the national team but chose a career in modelling. However, her love for the sport never faded. This passion was evident when she portrayed a para-cricketer in the film 'Ghoomer' alongside Abhishek Bachchan. The film resonated with audiences and critics alike, further cementing her connection to the cricketing world.
In her note, Kher praised the Indian team, acknowledging their hard work and determination. She lauded key players like Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana, and Jemimah Rodrigues, recognizing their contributions to the team's success. She also emphasized the importance of recognizing and supporting women in sports, a cause she has actively championed.
Kher has been a vocal advocate for equal recognition for women athletes, distributing cricket kits at a local girls' school and encouraging them to pursue the sport. She believes that the "iconic Blue Jersey belongs as much to women as it does to men," urging the nation to support the women's team with the same fervor as the men's team.
The Indian Women's Cricket team's World Cup victory is not just a sporting achievement; it's a watershed moment for women's cricket in India. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is yet to finalize plans for a grand victory parade to honour the women's cricket team's historic ICC World Cup triumph. The champions are set to share an unprecedented combined windfall of over ₹90 crore in prize money and cash rewards. The victory also secured India a record-breaking USD 4.48 million (₹39.78 crore) in prize money from the International Cricket Council (ICC).
The win has sparked a new wave of enthusiasm for the sport among young girls across the country. With role models like Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana leading the way, more girls are likely to take up cricket, further strengthening the future of women's cricket in India.
Saiyami Kher's journey, from a state-level cricketer to a Bollywood actress and now a cricket expert, is an inspiration to many. Her heartfelt note after India's World Cup win reflects the emotions of a nation celebrating a historic moment and the culmination of a long-cherished dream. Her story exemplifies how passion and perseverance can lead to a fulfilling life, both on and off the field.
