Eight years after the heartbreak of the 2017 Women’s World Cup final, India’s historic 2025 triumph wasn’t just about lifting a trophy—it was about silencing years of doubt, ridicule, and exclusion. And for veteran batter Punam Raut, the victory carried a deeply personal weight.
“I was bullied by boys for playing cricket,” Punam revealed in an exclusive interview with the Times of India. “They’d laugh, throw stones, and say, ‘Go home, this game isn’t for girls.’ Now? This win shut them up forever.”
From Mockery to Mastery: Punam’s Journey
Punam Raut, who played a crucial role in India’s 2017 campaign with 283 runs including a match-winning 86 against New Zealand, has long been a quiet pillar of Indian women’s cricket. But her path was never easy.
Growing up in Mumbai’s suburbs, she practiced with taped tennis balls on dusty maidans, often chased away by boys who claimed the pitch was “theirs.” Coaches questioned her commitment. Relatives urged her to “focus on studies.” Yet, she persisted—driven by a love for the game and a quiet fury against the naysayers.
Now, at 34, watching Harmanpreet Kaur lift the World Cup in Navi Mumbai, Punam says the tears weren’t just of joy—but of vindication.
Harmanpreet’s Leadership: The Turning Point
Punam credits captain Harmanpreet Kaur not just for tactical brilliance, but for creating a team culture where every player—regardless of age or role—felt valued. “Harman didn’t just lead; she protected us,” Punam said. “She made sure no girl on this team ever felt small.”
That unity was evident in every match—from the gritty group-stage recovery to the commanding final win over South Africa.
Shafali Verma: The Symbol of a New Era
Punam also highlighted Shafali Verma’s unexpected but transformative inclusion as a turning point. “People said she was too young, too reckless,” Punam recalled. “But Harman trusted her. And Shafali repaid that faith with fire.”
Shafali’s 87 in the final wasn’t just runs—it was a statement: the future of Indian cricket is fearless, female, and unapologetic.
2017 vs. 2025: A Nation’s Evolution
| Aspect | 2017 World Cup | 2025 World Cup |
|---|---|---|
| Final Result | Runners-up (Lost to England) | Champions (Beat South Africa by 52 runs) |
| Media Coverage | Limited, niche audience | Prime-time national broadcast, front-page headlines |
| Public Recognition | Minimal | Crorepati rewards, PM’s felicitation, viral celebrations |
| Cultural Impact | Raised awareness | Changed perceptions—cricket is for every girl |
This evolution mirrors Punam’s own journey—from being told to quit, to now being hailed as a pioneer.
“This Win Is for Every Girl Told ‘No’”
For Punam, the 2025 victory transcends sport. “Every girl who’s ever been laughed at for holding a bat… this trophy is hers,” she said, voice cracking. “We didn’t just win a World Cup. We gave permission—to dream, to play, to belong.”
And in doing so, they turned childhood taunts into a legacy of triumph.
Sources
Times of India – Exclusive Interview with Punam Raut,
ICC – Women’s World Cup 2025,
ESPNCricinfo – Final Match Report