India, Nov. 3 -- Indian eves, led by skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, put up a spirited performance to beat South Africa by 52 runs to lift the 50-over World Cup for the first time in the history of the tournament.

Indian bowlers kept things tight and picked up wickets at regular intervals to bowl out the opponents for 246, in 45. 3 overs, after posting a competitive 298 runs for the loss of seven wickets on the scoreboard.

In the run chase, South African captain Laura Wolvaardt (101) showed determination as she scored a much-needed century, hammering 11 boundaries and a six, before being dismissed.

Annerie Dercksen (35) remained the only other hope for South Africa, who added some spark at the end of the innings.

Indian fans suffered heartb...