Key Highlights
- Jemimah Rodrigues hit a remarkable unbeaten century to power India to a five-wicket win over Australia.
- India successfully chased down 339 runs set by Australia in the semi-final of ICC Women’s World Cup.
- Rodrigues and Harmanpreet Kaur formed a crucial partnership, achieving the highest successful chase in women’s one-day international history.
- This victory sets up India for a final against South Africa on Sunday.
India Stuns Australia: Historic Five-Wicket Win Seals Women’s World Cup Semifinal
In an enthralling semifinal at the ICC Women’s World Cup, India stunned Australia with a remarkable chase of 339 runs to secure their place in the final. The match, played on October 30, 2025, in Navi Mumbai, saw Jemimah Rodrigues deliver a breathtaking performance that will be remembered for years.
Rodrigues’ Century Puts India in the Spotlight
The star of the show was undoubtedly Jemimah Rodrigues. She faced Australia’s formidable challenge with composure and class, hitting an unbeaten century to lead India to victory. Rodrigues’ 127 runs came from just 134 balls, setting a new benchmark in women’s one-day international cricket.
India’s Strategy and Teamwork
With the target set at 339 runs, Harmanpreet Kaur led India through the powerplay, while Rodrigues showed intent from the off. Despite losing Harmanpreet to a dropped catch early in the innings, Rodrigues continued to maintain her composure and partnership with Deepti Sharma and Richa Ghosh.
When Harmanpreet was dismissed for 89 runs, India had only 113 runs needed. However, Rodrigues remained steadfast, surviving another dropped catch off Tahlia McGrath’s bowling. Her determination paid off as she reached her century with nine balls to spare, securing a historic five-wicket win.
Australia’s Missed Opportunities
Despite the formidable chase, Australia had several chances that they failed to capitalize on. Alyssa Healy’s missed stumping and dropped catches were pivotal moments in the game. Phoebe Litchfield’s century was impressive but not enough as Australia lost their last four wickets for only seven runs.
India’s Path to Glory
This victory marks a significant milestone for Indian cricket, especially under the leadership of Harmanpreet Kaur. The team’s resilience and tactical brilliance have been on display throughout the tournament, setting them up for a final against South Africa on Sunday.
Rodrigues expressed her emotions after the win, stating, “This has been really hard but it is a dream and this has not sunk in yet. It was not to prove a point but just to win this for India.” Kaur echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the team’s trust in each other’s abilities.
Future Implications
This historic victory could redefine women’s cricket globally. Rodrigues’ performance is expected to inspire future generations and potentially elevate the sport’s profile. As India looks forward to their final against South Africa, all eyes will be on the Indian team to see if they can add another chapter to their glorious World Cup history.
