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New Delhi: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis felicitated the Women's ODI World Cup-winning players Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues and Radha Yadav and presented them with Rs 2.25 crore cash reward each in Mumbai on Friday, November 7.
The felicitation programme was held at the CM's official residence, 'Varsha', in South Mumbai. CM Fadnavis called the players the "pride of Maharashtra" and said the victory would inspire young girls to take up sports and shine globally.
Harmanpreet and Co. created history by winning their maiden ICC trophy after beating South Africa in the final of the Women's ODI World Cup in Navi Mumbai on November 2.
During the felicitation, Fadnavis said that the players have made Maharashtra proud, and their victory has brought immense joy to the state.
Jemimah's century in the semifinal was a turning point, it took us to the finals. The way this team fought back and played like a family shows what true teamwork means." "The world has taken note of the fact that the World Cup, which traditionally went to a select group of countries, has for the first time come to India. It is a matter of immense pride. The entire team has performed brilliantly," he said.
Fadnavis further added that the victory is not possible without the role of the head coach and support staff, as their contribution is equally important. He also acknowledged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), Jay Shah, for their efforts in advancing women's cricket.
Head coach Amol Muzumdar was presented with a cheque of Rs 22.5 lakh, while each member of the support staff was given Rs 11 lakh.
Team India vice-captain Smriti Mandhana expressed gratitude to the people of Maharashtra and acknowledged the role of the support system behind the team's success. She said that the state has always supported them, and they were also felicitated in 2017, when they were runner-ups in the World Cup.
"Thank you for inviting and felicitating us, and that too in Mumbai, which makes it even more special. Many of our support staff members belong to this state. This victory wouldn't have been possible without their hard work," she said.
Muzumdar also praised the players for their unwavering focus and resilience over the past two years, and said that when the team came to Mumbai for the semifinals and finals, they had enthusiasm and belief that something historic would happen here.
"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 added.
Wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh received a grand welcome in her hometown, Siliguri, after playing a crucial role in India’s 2025 Women’s World Cup triumph. The Cricket Association of Bengal will honour her with a gold-plated bat and ball for her stellar performances.
Meanwhile, The Andhra Pradesh Government also announced a cash award of Rs 2.5 crore, a 1,000 sq. yard house site, and a Group-I government job for world champion Shree Charani.
Earlier, the women's team was also felicitated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu in New Delhi.
