In one of the most breathtaking performances in the history of women’s cricket, India Women scripted a sensational five-wicket victory over Australia Women in the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 semifinal, chasing down a record 339-run target to book their spot in the final. The match, played under the lights at the DY Patil Stadium, will be remembered for Jemimah Rodrigues’ unbeaten 127-run masterclass that powered India into the championship clash.
Australia, the defending champions, had entered the semifinal with an unbeaten run and were firm favorites to make another final appearance. But the Indian team, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, delivered a performance of discipline, belief, and firepower that left the Aussies stunned.
Australia’s Strong Start
Batting first after winning the toss, Australia set up a formidable total of 338 for 6, thanks to half-centuries from Phoebe Litchfield (82) and Ellyse Perry (74). Their partnership of 142 runs anchored the innings after an early strike from Indian pacer Renuka Singh. Beth Mooney added a crucial 45 in the death overs, while Ashleigh Gardner’s late cameo pushed the total past 330, giving Australia what seemed an unassailable advantage.
India’s bowlers had a tough time containing the run flow, though Deepti Sharma was economical with 2 for 49 in her 10 overs. The fielding unit showed intensity but also missed two crucial chances, allowing Australia to accelerate in the final stretch.
India’s Chase of the Century
Chasing 339 — the highest target ever attempted in a Women’s World Cup knockout — India’s start wasn’t ideal. Smriti Mandhana departed early for 23, mistiming a drive off Megan Schutt. However, Shafali Verma (41) and Jemimah Rodrigues steadied the innings, putting up a 78-run partnership that restored belief.
The turning point came when Harmanpreet Kaur joined Rodrigues at the crease. The duo constructed a monumental 162-run stand for the third wicket, rotating strike smartly and punishing loose deliveries with precision. Rodrigues, playing with maturity beyond her years, pierced the gaps effortlessly while Harmanpreet’s aggressive counterattack kept Australia under pressure.
Jemimah brought up her century off 98 balls — her first in a World Cup knockout — with a crisp cover drive that drew a standing ovation from the Mumbai crowd. Harmanpreet followed with a captain’s knock of 89 off 86 balls, falling just short of her hundred after mistiming a pull off Annabel Sutherland.
Calm Finish Under Pressure
Despite quick wickets of Richa Ghosh and Deepti Sharma, Rodrigues held her nerve. Supported by Pooja Vastrakar, she guided India home with 7 balls to spare. The winning moment came when Jemimah flicked a full delivery to deep midwicket for two runs, sealing India’s place in the World Cup Final for the first time since 2017.
The dressing room erupted in joy, and the crowd roared as Indian players waved the tricolor across the stadium. Jemimah Rodrigues, named Player of the Match, said,
“It’s emotional. We’ve waited years for this moment. The belief in the dressing room was unreal — we always knew we could do this.” – Jemimah Rodrigues
A Win for the Ages
India’s chase of 339 is now the highest successful run chase in Women’s ODI history, surpassing the previous record of 325. It was also the first time Australia lost a World Cup semifinal since 2009, ending a decade-long streak of dominance.
Harmanpreet Kaur praised her team’s resilience, saying,
“This is not just a win — it’s a statement. We’ve worked for years to reach this stage, and the girls showed tremendous character.”
India will now face South Africa Women in the final on November 2, setting the stage for another historic encounter.
With Rodrigues in the form of her life and Harmanpreet leading with grit, the Women in Blue have ignited hope across the nation — proving once again that Indian women’s cricket is ready to conquer the world.
Congratulations, Jemimah Rodrigues, on your career
