October 30, 2025, will be remembered as a landmark day in women’s world cup cricket history. In the second semi-final of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, held at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, the Indian women’s cricket team delivered a breathtaking performance to defeat defending champions Australia by 5 wickets, chasing down an imposing target of 268. This chase was the highest successful run chase ever seen in women’s ODI cricket, raising the bar in the world cup womens format.
Australia’s Tough Battling Total: 267/9
Batting first, Australia started strongly with openers Alyssa Healy and Beth Mooney putting on a steady partnership. Healy scored a gritty 56 runs off 74 balls, anchoring the innings patiently, while Mooney contributed a steady 42. Meg Lanning came in to add 48 crucial runs as Australia posted a competitive 267 for 9 in their 50 overs. The innings was a textbook mix of caution and power hitting that looked like setting a difficult target for India.
However, India’s spin attack, especially from Radha Yadav and Deepti Sharma, chipped away at Australia’s middle and lower order wickets which kept India’s hopes alive throughout the game.
Record-Breaking Chase Led by Jemimah Rodrigues
Chasing 268 runs, India started with a cautious approach, but the momentum shifted quickly when Jemimah Rodrigues came to the crease. Playing a spectacular innings, Jemimah scored an unbeaten 127 off 110 balls, peppered with 12 boundaries and 5 sixes. Her powerful strokes and calm mindset at crucial moments turned the tide in India’s favor. Jemimah’s innings was not just spectacular in terms of runs but also a masterclass in pacing the chase with patience and aggression blended perfectly.
Along with Jemimah, opener Smriti Mandhana gave a solid start scoring 48 runs, while Deepti Sharma played a handy cameo of 39 runs to keep the scoreboard ticking in the middle overs. The partnership between Rodrigues and skipper Harmanpreet Kaur was the backbone for the chase, stabilizing the innings after early jitters.
India sealed the match with nine balls to spare, winning by 5 wickets and marking the highest successful chase in the history of women’s ODI cricket.
For the latest scores and updates, fans can follow the official ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 live scores and schedule.
Player Highlights
- Jemimah Rodrigues: The Player of the Match, she displayed grace, power, and incredible composure under pressure, scoring her first World Cup century.
- Smriti Mandhana: Provided a solid foundation and kept India’s chase on track with aggressive stroke play.
- Deepti Sharma: Shone as a true all-rounder with valuable runs and key wickets.
- Radha Yadav: Crucial wickets in the middle overs kept Australia’s total within reach.
What This Win Means for India and Women’s Cricket
This victory is a testament to the rapid rise of Indian women’s cricket. After a shaky start to the women’s world cup cricket tournament, the team found its rhythm just when it mattered most. Chasing the highest total in Women’s ODI history against Australia, the reigning champions, is a massive confidence booster for the team heading into the final.
Jemimah Rodrigues’ innings especially sends a strong message of India’s rich talent pool and ability to take on the cricketing giants on a big stage.
Next Up: The Final Against South Africa
With this stunning victory, India has set up a mouth-watering final against South Africa Women who defeated England in the first semi-final. The final, scheduled to take place soon, promises to be a spectacular clash between two fiercely competitive sides, as they battle to claim the coveted ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 title.
Fans can expect a thrilling contest loaded with skill, passion, and moments of magic—the perfect showcase for the growth and excitement of women’s cricket globally.
