In a breathtaking second semi-final of the ICC Women’s World Cup at DY Patil Stadium, India Women chased down a daunting 339-run target to defeat Australia Women by five wickets with nine balls to spare. The chase, anchored by Jemimah Rodrigues and Harmanpreet Kaur, was a masterclass in composure under pressure, setting up a thrilling final for the Indian side.
Jemimah Rodrigues Holds India Together
After winning the toss, Australia Women posted a massive 338/10 in 49.5 overs, powered by Phoebe Litchfield’s 119 off 93 balls and Ellyse Perry’s 77. Ashleigh Gardner added a quickfire 63, giving Australia a strong total. Indian bowlers Shree Charani (2/49) and Deepti Sharma (2/73) fought hard, and the team’s fielding efforts led to three crucial run-outs.
Chasing the target, India lost early wickets of Shafali Verma (10) and Smriti Mandhana (24), but Jemimah Rodrigues steadied the innings. She remained unbeaten on 127 from 134 balls, striking 14 boundaries, and formed a crucial 167-run partnership with captain Harmanpreet Kaur, whose 89 from 88 balls included 10 fours and two sixes.
Late Contributions Seal India’s Win
Following Harmanpreet’s dismissal at 226, Deepti Sharma (24 off 17) and Richa Ghosh (26 off 16) added valuable runs to maintain the momentum. Amanjot Kaur’s unbeaten 15 ensured India stayed ahead, sealing a thrilling victory at 341/5 in 48.3 overs.
Australia’s bowlers Kim Garth (2/46) and Annabel Sutherland (2/69) tried to put pressure, but India’s calculated aggression ensured the chase was completed with nine balls remaining.