Historic Run-Chase Propels India Past Australia into World Cup Final
In a monumental display of batting prowess, India shattered records to complete the highest successful run-chase in women's One Day International history, stunning reigning champions Australia in a thrilling World Cup semi-final. The victory, orchestrated by a heroic unbeaten century from Jemimah Rodrigues and a powerful knock by skipper HarmanpreetKaur, booked India’s spot in the 2025 World Cup final, their first since 2017. The five-wicket triumph over an Australian side that had been undefeated in 16 previous ODI World Cup matches was a moment of profound sporting history.
Record-Breaking Pursuit and Partnership
Facing a daunting target of 339, after Australia posted a colossal 338—thanks largely to a dazzling maiden World Cup hundred from Phoebe Litchfield (119)—India's innings was a testament to resilience and attacking intent. Despite losing key wickets early, including the aggressive ShafaliVerma and SmritiMandhana, the chase was anchored by a spectacular 167-run partnership between Rodrigues and HarmanpreetKaur.
Rodrigues, walking in at number three, played a sublime innings, culminating in an undefeated 127 off 125 balls. Her fluency allowed Harmanpreet to settle, and the pair consistently scored at a high rate, never letting the required run rate spiral out of control. Harmanpreet provided the perfect foil, accelerating after reaching her half-century to smash a commanding 89, showcasing her best form of the tournament. The duo’s momentum-shifting collaboration ensured India remained firmly in control.
Crucial to India's success was capitalizing on moments of fortune; Rodrigues was dropped twice, on 82 and later on 106, lifelines that she utilized to devastating effect. While Harmanpreet’s departure threatened a late twist, cameos from the lower-middle order, including Deepti Sharma and RichaGhosh, pushed the total closer. Ultimately, it was Rodrigues who stood firm, seeing the chase through to completion with nine balls to spare, marking her first World Cup century with a triumphant, emotional celebration.
Australia's Formidable Total
Earlier in the day, Australia’s innings was spearheaded by the sensational Phoebe Litchfield. Following a brief rain delay that revitalized the innings, Litchfield dominated the middle overs, reaching her century off a mere 77 deliveries. Her innovative batting, featuring audacious switch-hits and powerful sweeps, neutralized India’s spin threat. She found strong support from Ellyse Perry (77) and a late-innings blitz from Ashleigh Gardner (63), whose rapid half-century ensured Australia passed the 300-run mark.
However, India’s bowlers, particularly Shree Charani and Deepti Sharma, managed to claw back some control in the latter stages, taking 8 wickets for 118 runs towards the close. This late containment proved to be a vital difference, preventing Australia from setting an even more insurmountable total.
The massive 34,651 spectators at the DY Patil Stadium witnessed a classic encounter that signaled a significant power shift in women's cricket. The defeat was Australia's first major stumble in a global tournament in years. India now progresses to face South Africa in the final on Sunday, guaranteeing a new champion will be crowned, as neither Australia nor England will feature in the title decider.
