India Kicks Off Women's ODI World Cup 2025 with a Victory
The Indian women's cricket team commenced their campaign in the Women's ODI World Cup 2025 with a decisive victory over Sri Lanka at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati on September 30. Despite an early top-order collapse, India managed to post a competitive total, primarily thanks to stellar all-round performances.
Deepti Sharma and Amanjot Kaur emerged as the stars of the match, forging a crucial century-run partnership that rescued India from a precarious 124-6. Deepti Sharma scored an unbeaten 58 runs off 63 balls, while Amanjot Kaur contributed 59 runs off 49 balls, displaying remarkable composure under pressure. Their efforts guided India to a total of 227-7. Later, Sneh Rana provided a quick-fire cameo, adding 28 runs off just 15 deliveries.
With the ball, Deepti Sharma continued her heroics, claiming three crucial wickets, including that of Sri Lankan captain Chamari Athapaththu. Sneh Rana also picked up two wickets, and Amanjot Kaur secured an early breakthrough, ensuring Sri Lanka struggled to chase the target. India ultimately won the match by 59 runs (DLS method), limiting Sri Lanka to 211. This winning start sets a positive tone for India's quest for their first Women's World Cup crown on home soil.
Indian Para-Athletes Dominate at World Championships
Indian athletes continue to make their mark at the World Para Athletics Championships. On September 30, India celebrated a remarkable one-two finish in the Men's Javelin Throw F44 event. Sandip Sanjay Sargar clinched the gold medal with a personal best throw of 62.82 meters, becoming the world champion. Compatriot Sandeep Chaudhary secured the silver medal with a season's best of 62.67 meters. This outstanding performance significantly boosted India's medal tally at the championships to eight.
Further adding to India's success, Yogesh Kathuniya secured a silver medal in the Men's Discus Throw F56 event. Javelin star Rinku Hooda also contributed to India's gold medal count at the championships.
India Wins Gold at ISSF Junior World Cup
In shooting, India secured a gold medal in the 10m Air Rifle Mixed Team event at the ISSF Junior World Cup. The pair of Isha Anil Taksale and Himanshu staged a thrilling comeback to defeat their country-mates Shambhavi Kshirsagar and Naraen Pranav in the final. This victory further solidifies India's strong position in junior shooting events on the international stage.