BCCI announces cash prize of Rs 51 cr for India’s victorious eves’ WC contingent

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday announced a cash reward of Rs 51 crore ($5.75m) for the players, support staff and selection committee, in recognition of India’s maiden triumph at the ICC Women’s World Cup.

Harmanpreet Kaur-led India were crowned the ODI champions after they defeated South Africa by 52 runs in the final at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Sunday.

“To honour this unprecedented success, the BCCI has announced a cash reward of INR 51 crore for the players, support staff and selection committee, in recognition of their remarkable performance, dedication and contribution to the nation’s sporting glory,” the board said in a statement.

The team’s success will undoubtedly inspire a surge of interest among young girls to take up cricket, and accelerate the expansion of grassroots programmes across the country, it added.

The BCCI reaffirmed its commitment to sustain this momentum - continuing investment in women’s cricket, strengthening domestic pathways, nurturing future generations, and securing India’s place among the dominant forces in world women’s cricket.

BCCI president Mithun Manhas, secretary Devajit Saikia among other office bearers congratulated Women in Blue for their historic triumph.

“On behalf of the Board, I congratulate the Indian women’s cricket team on this historic world-championship victory. The team’s resilience, talent and togetherness have lifted our nation’s hopes. This triumph vindicates the investment and faith the BCCI placed in building a world-class women’s programme,” Manhas said.

Devajit Saikia, Honorary Secretary, BCCI, said, “This phenomenal achievement is the result of relentless preparation, flawless execution and the unshakable belief of our women cricketers. The coaching staff, support personnel and every state association have played a role. Congratulations to each and every member of the team. This team has made the entire cricket fraternity proud.”

Rajeev Shukla, Vice-President, BCCI, said, “The journey to this summit was paved with many small steps — enhanced domestic tournaments, better facilities, equal opportunities. Today’s victory shows that when we align vision with action, greatness follows. Congratulations to our champions, and thank you to everyone who stood behind them.”

“Witnessing this team’s evolution into world-champs fills me with immense pride. The performance, character and unity displayed are exemplary. This is not just a win for the players—it is a watershed moment for women’s cricket in India and globally. Well done to each member of the squad, and to the support ecosystem,” A. Raghuram Bhat, Treasurer, BCCI, said.

Prabhtej Singh Bhatia, Honorary Joint Secretary, BCCI, said, “This world title ushers in a new era for Indian cricket. Our women have displayed skill, courage and composure under pressure. The BCCI remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing women’s cricket at every level and celebrating our champions in the grandest possible way.”

WC winning team likely to meet PM Modi on Wednesday, say sources

The World Cup winning team is likely to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the national capital on Wednesday, said sources aware of the development to IANS.

The players and support staff members, currently in Navi Mumbai, are expected to leave for New Delhi by Tuesday evening and will return to their respective homes after meeting with Prime Minister Modi on Wednesday.

Legendary batter Sunil Gavaskar hailed India’s historic Women’s ODI World Cup triumph as a defining moment in the country’s cricketing journey, adding that it’s something which will be remembered for ages.

The historic win, which can be the turning point for women’s cricket in the country, has since sparked celebrations across the country. “What a wonderful time it was at the DY Patil Stadium when Harmanpreet Kaur, the captain of the Indian women’s team, took the catch for India to win the ICC Women’s World Cup. What a moment it was. It was a magnificent moment,” Gavaskar said in a video posted on his Instagram account on Monday.

“It was terrific to see the way the girls fought. They came back after having a difficult league stage, but the captain showed great character, great determination and went on to win the World Cup. It’s a moment to savour, it’s a moment to cherish, it’s a moment to remember for the ages,” Gavaskar added.

He further described the victory in Navi Mumbai as a landmark moment for both men’s and women’s cricket in India. “It’s a wonderful moment in the history of Indian cricket, men’s and women’s. Many, many congratulations to Harmanpreet Kaur and her team for giving us so much happiness, so much joy. The entire cricketing community is very, very proud of you. Well done, congratulations.”

Agencies