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Historic Laureus Nomination for Indian Women’s Cricket Team
The India women’s national cricket team has made history once again, this time off the pitch, by earning a nomination for the prestigious 2026 Laureus World Team of the Year Award — one of global sport’s most coveted honours. This nomination comes as a direct result of their landmark triumph at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, where they clinched their first-ever ODI World Cup title, capturing the imagination of fans across the nation and around the world.
Instituted in 2000, the Laureus World Sports Awards celebrate the highest achievements in global sport each year, recognising excellence, inspiration, and the power of sport to unite and uplift. The World Team of the Year category is particularly special — recognising teams whose performances transcend the boundaries of their sport and resonate across cultures and continents. That India’s women’s cricket team has been shortlisted confirms just how significant their 2025 campaign was.
A Journey of Grit, Passion and Triumph
The path to this nomination was paved during the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, held across India and co-hosted with Sri Lanka. After a mixed start in the group stages — where India registered three wins but also suffered three losses — the team’s resilience and character came to the fore when it mattered most.
India’s semi-final clash against Australia provided one of the most thrilling moments in women’s cricket history. Chasing a daunting total, the Indian team executed the highest successful run chase in women’s ODI cricket — a remarkable feat that showcased their composure under pressure and tactical acumen. This performance wasn’t just statistically impressive, it redefined belief for Indian women’s sport.
In the final at the iconic DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, India continued their dominant form, defeating South Africa by 52 runs to lift the championship trophy. It was more than a win; it was a statement — a powerful affirmation of the strides women’s cricket has taken in India over the years.
A Milestone for Indian Cricket
India’s World Cup success was historic on multiple fronts. It ended decades of heartbreak as the team had come close to glory on several occasions in previous editions, only to fall short. The triumph was a culmination of years of development, investment, and belief in women’s cricket by players, coaches, administrators, and fans alike.
The BCCI — India’s national cricket board — recognised the magnitude of the achievement, announcing a cash reward of Rs 51 crore for the squad in honour of their extraordinary success and contribution to Indian sport.
But beyond the financial incentives, the real reward lay in global acknowledgement. Becoming the first women’s cricket team ever nominated for the Laureus World Team of the Year Award firmly places the Indian women’s side among the elite of world sport.
Laureus Nomination: What It Means
What makes this nomination so special is not just the prestige of the award, but the context in which it has arrived. The Laureus World Sports Awards are decided by the Laureus World Sports Academy, a jury of legendary athletes and sports media representatives from across the globe. Over 1,000 sports journalists from more than 70 countries vote to determine the nominees and eventual winners — a process that reflects a true worldwide consensus.
India’s women’s team finds itself in distinguished company on the shortlist, which includes internationally renowned teams such as:
- Paris Saint-Germain (Football) — Champions in Europe’s elite club football.
- McLaren Formula 1 Team (UK) — A powerhouse in global motorsport.
- European Ryder Cup Team (Golf) — A symbol of excellence in one of sport’s great traditions.
- England Women’s Football Team (UK) — A dominant force in global women’s football.
- Oklahoma City Thunder (Basketball, USA) — A respected franchise in the NBA.
Standing shoulder to shoulder with such iconic teams is not just recognition of past success — it’s an endorsement of Indian women’s cricket as a global force.
Voices of Pride and Support
The reaction within Indian sporting circles has been overwhelmingly positive. BCCI President Mithun Manhas emphasised the pride associated with the nomination, noting that the team’s extraordinary skill, character, and consistency have earned them their place among the world’s best. His comments also highlighted the broader growth and rising stature of women’s cricket in India.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia echoed these sentiments, stressing that this nomination not only honours a fantastic team but also inspires countless young girls across India to embrace sport and aspire to greatness.
Looking Toward Laureus Night
The winners of the Laureus World Team of the Year Award will be announced at a gala ceremony in Madrid, Spain, on April 20, 2026 — a glittering event that brings together the best athletes, teams, and sporting personalities from around the world.
For the Indian women’s cricket team, the nomination itself is a vindication of years of hard work, perseverance, and evolution. Whether they win or not, their inclusion in this elite list is already a victory — one that transcends sport and reminds the world of the power of belief, team spirit, and national pride.
Conclusion
The nomination of the Indian women’s cricket team for the 2026 Laureus World Team of the Year Award is more than just an accolade. It’s a testament to the team’s historic journey — from humble beginnings to global champions, from national heroes to global icons. Their story is an inspiration not only for aspiring cricketers but for every young athlete dreaming of making a mark on the world stage.
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