Indian cricket star Pratika Rawal has finally secured her Women’s World Cup winner’s medal bringing an end to the controversy that saw her miss out initially due to International Cricket Council (ICC) regulations.

The opening batter. Who was the second-highest run-scorer for India with a stellar 308 runs before being ruled out with an ankle injury, was initially denied the medal.

According to long-standing ICC rules, only players named in the final 15-member squad are eligible for the winner’s medal. Rawal was replaced by Shafali Verma ahead of the semi-final, which meant she missed the official presentation ceremony.

Fans and critics had widely condemned the rule citing her crucial contribution to India’s historic maiden World Cup win.

However, a viral team photograph with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday sparked confusion as Rawal was seen proudly wearing the gold medal around her neck.

The mystery has now been solved with a heartwarming intervention. Rawal herself confirmed that the official medal is on its way, thanks to the efforts of ICC Chairman Jay Shah.

Rawal, who celebrated her team’s victory from a wheelchair on the day of the final, also shared her emotions:

“I can’t express it enough. There’s no words. It’s not going to come out of my mouth. This flag on my shoulder means a lot to me. And you know, being here with my team, it’s just surreal.”

The happy ending, facilitated by Mr. Shah’s personal intervention, is a welcome acknowledgement of Rawal’s impact on the championship win.