From Dal Bhat to World Cup; Learn about the Struggle Journey of the Indian Women's Cricket Team...

In the final match of the ICC Women's One Day World Cup 2025, India will face South Africa today. But behind this success lies the great struggle of the female players. In the early days, women's cricket was not given much attention. There was no funding for the team, no facilities, and there was indifference in society as well. During that time, women cricketers had to play in extremely difficult conditions. Often they had to sleep on the floor, eat dal and rice in plastic cups. There were only four toilets available for twenty players. Having a separate room, good food, or travel facilities was a dreamlike thing.

Recalling old memories, the then Secretary of the Women's Cricket Association of India (WCAI), Nutan Gavaskar, said, "In those days, securing funds was a very difficult task. Sponsors had to be found even for flight tickets for overseas tours. NRI parents would help, and actress Mandira Bedi and Air India also covered airport expenses many times."

Under the leadership of Shanta Rangaswamy and Nutan Gavaskar, the women's cricket team continued its journey despite adverse conditions. The Women's Cricket Association of India, established in 1973, shaped this team. Today, the situation has completely changed. The Indian women's team has made its mark worldwide. Players like Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana, and Shafali Verma have reached a stage where India can be proud of their performances.

From eating dal rice in plastic cups to being on the brink of winning the World Cup, the journey of the Indian women's cricket team has become a symbol of struggle, determination, and confidence. If India wins today, it will not just be a victory of a single match, but an honor for the decade-long struggle.