Alyssa Healy says new Women’s World Cup winner will boost global growth of cricket

Australia captain Alyssa Healy believes that the emergence of a new champion at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 will bring a major boost to women’s cricket worldwide. After Australia’s exit in the semi-final against India, Healy acknowledged that a fresh winner could significantly impact the sport’s global reach and future investments.

Australia’s campaign ended with a five-wicket loss to India at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai. The victory took India to their third World Cup final, where they will face South Africa — a team making its first-ever appearance in an ODI World Cup final. The highly anticipated clash promises to be a defining moment for both nations and women’s cricket globally.

Healy, reflecting on Australia’s exit, spoke with optimism about the impact of a new titleholder. “To see a new winner is going to do wonders for the game,” she said. “The way the tournament has been supported in India shows how far women’s cricket has come. Playing a World Cup final at home, in front of passionate fans, will be incredibly special for the Indian team.”

She also praised South Africa’s consistent performances in recent ICC tournaments, noting that the Proteas have often been close to a breakthrough. “For South Africa, it’s another big opportunity. They’ve been close in the past, and this could finally be their moment. It might sting for us, but it’s going to be fantastic for the sport to see two deserving sides battle it out,” Healy added.

Her remarks underscore a broader sentiment in women’s cricket — the desire to see greater diversity among champions and stronger competition across nations. With India and South Africa both eyeing their maiden World Cup crown, the final represents more than just a title fight; it symbolizes the growth and global appeal of women’s cricket.

India, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, will be looking to finally lift the trophy after falling short in 2005 and 2017. For South Africa, led by Laura Wolvaardt, the contest marks a third straight ICC event final appearance, highlighting their rising consistency.

The 2025 World Cup final in Navi Mumbai promises to be a spectacle of determination, talent, and the spirit of progress in women’s sports. Whether it’s India making history on home soil or South Africa scripting a new chapter, a new champion is poised to inspire millions and push women’s cricket toward an era of wider recognition and global growth.