NEW DELHI: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday felicitated Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Radha Yadav, members of India’s Women’s World Cup-winning team from the state, and presented each with a cash reward of Rs 2.25 crore.

The ceremony was held at the CM’s official residence, ‘Varsha’, in south Mumbai. Fadnavis called the trio the “pride of Maharashtra” and said their victory will inspire young girls to pursue sports and shine on global platforms.

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The Harmanpreet Kaur-led side created history by winning India’s maiden 50-over Women’s World Cup with a 52-run victory over South Africa in the final at Navi Mumbai.

Fadnavis praised the team’s unity and fighting spirit, noting Jemimah Rodrigues’ century in the semifinal as a key turning point that helped take the team to the finals. He added that this historic achievement, being the first time the World Cup came to India, brings immense pride to the country.

Team Spirit and Support Staff Honored

Fadnavis lauded the camaraderie among players, emphasizing that team bonding and unity were crucial to their success. “In professional cricket, victory is not possible without support. The role of the coach, support staff, and guides is equally crucial,” he said. He also acknowledged the efforts of the BCCI and ICC chairman Jay Shah for their contribution to advancing women’s cricket.

Coach Amol Muzumdar was presented a check of Rs 22.5 lakh, while each member of the support staff received Rs 11 lakh. bowling coach Avishkar Salvi, former cricketer Diana Edujianalyst Aniruddha Deshpande, logistics coordinator Aparna Gambhirraoand staff members Mihir Upadhyay, poorva Kate,and Mamta Shirurulla were present to witness the felicitation and celebrate the achievement.

Players Reflect on Victory

Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana expressed gratitude to the people of Maharashtra and acknowledged the role of the support system. “Thank you for inviting and felicitating us, and that too in Mumbai, which makes it even more special. Maharashtra has always supported us. Many of our support staff belong to this state. This victory wouldn’t have been possible without their hard work,” she said.

Coach Amol Muzumdar praised the players’ focus and resilience over the past two years. “When we came to Mumbai for the semifinals and finals, we had enthusiasm and belief that something historic would happen. The skill level of these players is beyond imagination. They had just one dream—to win the World Cup—and they worked day and night for it,” he said.

Left-arm spinner Radha Yadav said it was her first felicitation and expressed pride and gratitude. Jemimah Rodrigues said, “Our biggest goal now is to leave the game in a better place for the next generation. The smile on my parents’ faces means more than anything else.”

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who was also present, drew parallels between this victory and India’s 1983 World Cup win. “When Kapil Dev lifted the World Cup, cricket became a religion. Today, these women have done the same for their generation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said you have won hearts.

Diwali was celebrated again after your win,” he said. Pawar added that this victory shows that when girls from rural India get opportunities, they can make the country proud. He also praised Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Radha Yadav for their resilience, talent, and inspiring stories.

(With PTI Inputs)