India has achieved a monumental victory, defeating defending champions Australia in a thrilling Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 semi-final in Navi Mumbai. Chasing an imposing 339, India scripted history with a remarkable five-wicket win in 48.3 overs, marking the highest successful run chase in World Cup history. The standout performer was Jemimah Rodrigues, who played a match-winning, unbeaten 127 off 134 balls, anchoring the chase from the crucial number three position. Her exceptional 167-run partnership with captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who contributed 89 runs, proved pivotal in shifting the game’s momentum and ending Australia’s dominance.
Reflecting on her extraordinary performance, a visibly emotional Rodrigues, awarded Player of the Match, shared her journey. “I want to thank Jesus, could not do this on my own,” she stated. “I want to thank my mom, dad and coach and every single person who believed in me. It was really hard this last month, it feels like a dream and it still has not sunk in.”
In a surprising revelation, Rodrigues disclosed that she was unaware she would be batting at number three until just five minutes before entering the crease. “Was taking a shower, just told them to let me know. Five minutes before entering in, I was told I was batting at three,” she recounted. The focus, she emphasized, was on winning for India, especially after past close encounters. “Today was not about my fifty or my hundred, about making India win.” Rodrigues also opened up about her mental struggles, including anxiety and the difficult decision of being dropped from the World Cup squad previously despite good form. “I have almost cried every day through this tour. Not doing well mentally, going through anxiety. I knew I had to show up, and God took care of everything.” She found strength in faith during the tense moments, quoting a Bible scripture about standing still and letting divine forces fight.
The Indian chase began shakily with early wickets falling, but Rodrigues, alongside Kaur, provided stability. Australia missed crucial catching opportunities, which proved to be costly. Despite losing Kaur, the team maintained composure, with vital contributions from Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh, and Amanjot Kaur, who hit the winning boundary. The victory propelled India into the World Cup final, where they will face South Africa, aiming for their first-ever Women’s ODI World Cup title. Rodrigues’ century was a historic feat, making her the second batter to score a hundred in a World Cup knockout run-chase.
