Team India captain Harmanpreet Kaur recently lived out a dream by leading the nation to its first-ever ICC Women's Cricket World Cup title. For someone who has given so much to the game, this glory was a dream come true, especially as it was her fifth World Cup appearance after she first debuted way back in the 2009 edition. This victory has not just won a trophy but has also helped cement her name as one of the game's most inspirational figures.

Also Read: IPL 2026 Retention: Top 10 players who might not be retained by franchises

Fresh from the historic win, Harmanpreet attended a special felicitation event at Velammal Nexus School in Chennai, where she spent time with students. She shared some inspiring words with the young crowd, naming former India opener Virender Sehwag as her biggest inspiration. Her message to the students was simple yet powerful, advising young girls to “work hard” to achieve their goals. She also spoke with great pride about the huge growth and recognition women’s cricket is enjoying today. "It is good to see that now people only talk about cricket without comparing (men's and women's cricket). Now everyone enjoys, and the viewership is high, stadiums are full, it is a proud moment,” she said.

During the interaction, a question was put forward that has been a hot topic among cricket fans for years: who is her favourite cricketer, the aggressive run-machine Virat Kohli or the ice-cool finisher MS Dhoni? When pressed to choose between the two modern-day legends, Harmanpreet did not hesitate. The champion skipper made her choice clear and picked MS Dhoni over Virat Kohli.

This choice holds a special meaning for keen observers. Harmanpreet Kaur used to wear the iconic jersey number 7 on her back for Team India, a tribute to the same number made famous by 'Captain Cool' MS Dhoni throughout his career. Although she now wears number 23 in international matches, that connection remains strong. Just like MSD, who wore number 7 and led India to the famous 2011 World Cup triumph, Harmanpreet has guided the women’s team to a famous World Cup victory, ensuring her name is immortalised in the rich history of the game as a champion leader.