India script history as Harmanpreet Kaur-led side becomes first-ever women’s cricket team nominated for Laureus honour

NEW DELHI — In a watershed moment for both Indian sport and global women’s cricket, the Harmanpreet Kaur-captained India women’s team has been nominated for the 2026 Laureus World Team of the Year Award, becoming the first women’s cricket side ever to earn that distinction.

The nomination, announced by Laureus Sport, recognises India’s breakthrough World Cup triumph that culminated earlier this year. The campaign was headlined by a record-shattering semi-final against Australia in which India chased down 339 — the highest successful run chase in women’s ODI history — before overcoming South Africa in the final to secure the country’s maiden women’s World Cup title.

“In their Cricket World Cup semi-final against Australia, the India Women's Cricket Team pulled off the highest successful run chase in women's ODI history (339) – before winning their first title against South Africa and are the first women's cricket team to be nominated for this Award,” Laureus Sport said in a press release.

The accolade places the Indian outfit among an illustrious shortlist that includes England’s UEFA Women’s Euro-winning football team, Europe’s Ryder Cup squad, Paris Saint-Germain, and the McLaren Formula 1 team.

India’s triumph triggered nationwide celebrations and prompted the Board of Control for Cricket in India to announce a Rs 51-crore cash reward for the squad. The nomination also adds the team to a select roster of Indian athletes previously recognised by the Laureus Academy, a list that includes wrestler Vinesh Phogat, javelin star Neeraj Chopra, and cricketer Rishabh Pant.

The winners will be decided by the Laureus World Sports Academy and revealed during a gala ceremony at Madrid’s Cibeles Palace on 20 April 2026, the Spanish capital’s third consecutive year hosting the event.