Rohtak celebrates Shafali’s heroic 87 in WC final

Indian opener Shafali Verma’s brilliant 87-run knock in the Women’s World Cup final against South Africa in Navi Mumbai on Sunday brought immense pride and joy to her hometown, Rohtak.

Shafali, who was not part of the initial Indian squad, earned her place as a replacement for opener Pratika Rawal after the latter was ruled out due to injury.

Her father, Sanjeev Verma, along with other family members, watched the live telecast of the match at the local cricket academy where Shafali trained before making her mark on the international stage.

“I am delighted that Shafali scored runs for the nation and gave India a strong start alongside Smriti Mandhana,” Verma told The Tribune over the phone. “Though she played one risky shot unnecessarily when she was already well set, such things are part of the game. I hope the team continues its momentum and brings home the World Cup, which would be the ultimate joy for me and every Indian.”

He said he spoke to Shafali before the final to boost her morale and share some advice.

“Before the final, Shafali was a little nervous as she couldn’t score much in the previous match. I told her to play her natural game and spend as much time as possible at the crease.

She promised to give her hundred percent and she kept her word with a superb performance. We are proud and happy that she lived up to the selectors’ expectations,” he added.

Expressing gratitude for her selection in the two crucial matches, Verma said, “I am thankful to God and the selectors for giving her the opportunity to represent India in the semifinal and final.”

Mukesh Bagri, a cricket enthusiast, said all residents of Rohtak were expecting a brilliant performance from Shafali in the final, and she delivered, bringing joy and pride to everyone with her inning.