Rain showers and a damp outfield delayed the Women’s World Cup final between India and South Africa in Mumbai on Sunday.
Fans filled the stands of the DY Patil Stadium, which can accommodate up to 45,000 spectators, as both sides await their chance to claim a historic first-ever 50-over World Cup title.
Toss was initially postponed by 30 minutes to 3pm (0930 GMT), with the start revised to 3.30pm, but more drizzle pushed that back.
India finished second twice, in 2005 and 2017, and reached the third final after beating seven-time champions Australia in a thriller.
The South African women are in their first ODI World Cup final after beating four-time winners England in the other semi-final.
Earlier, India captain Harmanpreet Kaur said winning the World Cup could be a turning point for the women’s game in the cricket-mad country.
“The last time we reached the final and came back to India, we saw a big change,” Kaur told reporters on Saturday.
“Women’s cricket was progressing and we saw a lot of girls on the ground.
“So I’m sure if we win this final, we’ll see a lot more changes and we’ll see more cricket, not just at the international level but also at the domestic level.”
“So I think we are really looking forward to the time when we will see women’s cricket in a more serious way and we will see more girls (playing),” she said.
Indian players like Kaur and Smriti Mandhana have become household names in the world’s most populous country since the Women’s Premier League T20 tournament began in 2023.
Jemimah Rodrigues played a championship knock with an unbeaten 127 to help India chase a record 339 against holders Australia in the semi-finals.
“I think it’s a proud moment for me and the whole team,” Kaur said.
“I’m sure the whole country must also be very proud of the way we played in the last two games and yes, it’s a big day.”
South Africa, led by Laura Wolvaardt, defeated four-time winners England to reach their first ODI World Cup final.
Wolvaardt said the pressure on the home side could work in South Africa’s favor at the DY Patil Stadium, which has a capacity of 45,000.
“I think with the whole crowd behind India, probably a sold out stadium, it’s going to be a very exciting opportunity,” Wolvaardt said.
“But at the same time, I think it also puts a lot of pressure on them. So yeah, I think it hopefully plays to our advantage.”
Only Australia, England and New Zealand have ever won the tournament since it began in 1973.
Kaur said a new champion will be good for the sport.
“That’s why we’re seeing more excitement,” she said. “And reaching the final is also very special, not only for us but also for the Indian fans who have been a great support to us.”
