Sopore, November 3,2025: In the serene apple orchards of Sopore, where the Himalayan winds carry whispers of dreams, a young girl’s story has risen to symbolise courage, passion, and transformation. Hurmat Irshad Bhat, an eight-year-old cricketer from North Kashmir, has captured the imagination of the nation — her journey from a dusty ground in Sopore to the spotlight of India’s historic ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 victory is nothing short of extraordinary.
It all began in 2024 when a video of Hurmat batting fearlessly against a group of boys went viral on social media. Her fluid cover drives and confident stance caught the eye of millions, including cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, who shared the clip with the caption: “Always good to see young girls playing cricket. Watching videos like these brings a smile to my face.” That single moment transformed Hurmat from a village prodigy into a symbol of hope and empowerment for countless young girls across Kashmir.
Now, in 2025, India stands tall as the ICC Women’s World Cup Champion for the first time in history. The final at DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai, saw 45,000 fans erupt in celebration as Harmanpreet Kaur took the match-winning catch that sealed India’s 52-run triumph over South Africa. Players like Deepti Sharma and Shafali Verma starred with all-round brilliance and batting fireworks, etching a golden chapter in Indian sports history.
In recognition of this monumental achievement, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia announced a ₹51 crore cash reward for the women’s team — a gesture that symbolizes a new era of equality, respect, and recognition in Indian cricket.
For young Hurmat, who watched the victory unfold from her home in Sopore, it was more than just a match — it was the realisation of a dream she had begun to chase with a broken bat and endless faith. Her story reflects the rise of Kashmir’s new generation — fearless, ambitious, and unafraid to dream beyond boundaries.
“Hurmat’s passion and talent are proof that the spirit of cricket flows deeply in every corner of India,” said a senior coach from Baramulla, adding that local authorities are working to develop better facilities for young girls interested in sports.
As India celebrates its first Women’s World Cup title, stories like Hurmat’s remind us that talent knows no geography or gender. From Sopore’s orchards to Mumbai’s stadium lights, the arc of her journey mirrors that of a nation rising to embrace its daughters’ dreams — one boundary, one victory, and one fearless swing at a time.
