NAVI MUMBAI – Jemimah Rodrigues showcased nerves of steel with a magnificent century under pressure as India defeated defending champions Australia to storm into the final of the ICC Women’s World Cup on Thursday.
Chasing a massive 339-run target, India pulled off a record-breaking victory, achieving the highest successful chase in Women’s ODI history. The hosts sealed the win by five wickets with nine balls remaining — a moment that will be remembered in Indian cricket history.
The grand finale of the Women’s World Cup will now see India face South Africa on Sunday.
India’s chase began on a shaky note as opener Shafali Verma departed early after scoring 10 off just five deliveries. Smriti Mandhana then joined hands with Jemimah Rodrigues for a steady 46-run partnership before Mandhana was dismissed for 24 off 24 balls, leaving India at 59-2 after 9.2 overs.
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur stepped in to steady the innings, forging a match-defining 167-run stand with Rodrigues. Their commanding partnership frustrated Australia’s bowlers and shifted the momentum decisively in India’s favor.
Kaur fell for a well-made 89 off 88 balls, hitting 10 fours and two sixes. Despite her dismissal, Rodrigues continued her composed knock, steering India toward victory. Her unbeaten 127 off 134 balls, featuring 14 boundaries, was the backbone of India’s successful chase.
Richa Ghosh provided late support with a quick-fire 26 off 16 deliveries to finish the job.
For Australia, Kim Garth and Annabel Sutherland took two wickets each but couldn’t stop India’s momentum.
Earlier in the day, Australia posted a strong total of 338 in 49.5 overs, thanks to Phoebe Litchfield’s 119 off 93 balls, which included 17 fours and three sixes. Litchfield shared a vital 155-run partnership with Ellyse Perry, who added 77 off 88 deliveries.
Though India’s bowlers made a late comeback, Ashleigh Gardner’s 63 from 45 balls ensured Australia crossed the 330-run mark. Shree Charani and Deepti Sharma claimed two wickets each for India.
With this sensational victory, India not only ended Australia’s dominant run but also announced themselves as strong contenders for the world title.
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