Harleen Deol is an Indian international cricketer, best known for her aggressive batting and exceptional fielding.
Quick profile
Right-handed Batting all-rounder Right-arm leg break is bowling style India debut: 2019 (ODI & T20I) Why she’s well known Gained global attention for a spectacular boundary-line catch against England in 2021, widely regarded as one of the best catches in women’s cricket. Known for her athleticism, quick reflexes, and ability to accelerate innings in limited-overs cricket. Domestic & league cricket Plays domestic cricket for Himachal Pradesh. Featured in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), representing Gujarat Giants.
India's victory at the Women's World Cup isn't just a turning point in women's cricket or even Indian sports
India’s victory in the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup has already begun to transform women’s cricket in India and promises longer-term effects across sport, society, and the economy — much like India’s 1983 men’s World Cup win did for cricket in general.
Here’s how the impact is already playing out:
🏏 1. Huge boost in popularity and visibility
The 2025 Women’s World Cup final drew record audiences, with viewership numbers surpassing previous editions and showing women’s cricket can attract mass nationwide attention.
This win has made stars out of players like Shafali Verma, Deepti Sharma and others, raising their profiles far beyond the women’s cricket community.
💰 2. Commercial and financial growth
Brands and advertisers are much more eager to sign women cricketers for endorsements — a shift from token deals to real commercial opportunities.
Players and the team have received substantial financial rewards (cash prizes, government and corporate incentives, gifts such as cars, etc.).
The BCCI has also increased domestic match fees significantly, improving earnings for players beyond just the national team.
👧 3. Inspiration for the next generation
This victory has become a symbolic milestone that inspires millions of young girls to take up cricket and sports more broadly — giving them role models they can see on the big stage.
Greater participation at grassroots levels, including more girls joining academies and training programs, is already being noted, building the pipeline of future talent.
📈 4. Stronger structures and professional pathways
Interest and investment in women’s leagues like the Women’s Premier League (WPL) are rising, which offers regular professional competition and development for players.
Expanded media rights, sponsorships, and broadcast deals are becoming viable as viewership and fan engagement grow.
🧠 5. Societal and cultural impact
The spotlight on women’s cricket challenges traditional gender roles in sports and encourages broader acceptance and support for women athletes.
Public celebrations and official recognition (from the Prime Minister and sports icons) help embed women’s cricket into India’s sporting culture.
🏆 6. Long-term legacy potential
Much like how the 1983 men’s win shifted cricket’s place in Indian society, this women’s triumph could mark a turning point that sustains high interest, investment, and respect for women’s sport over years — not just months.
In short: the impact is already visible — more money, more media attention, more young girls playing, and a stronger commercial footprint. Over time, it’s likely to elevate women’s cricket from the margins to the mainstream in India and inspire other women’s sports to chase similar success.