India storm into the Women’s World Cup semifinals after a commanding 53-run win over New Zealand
Navi Mumbai, India, October 24, 2025 — In a high-stakes clash that decided the final semifinal berth, India delivered a confident all-round performance to defeat New Zealand by 53 runs and book their spot in the last four of the Women’s World Cup. They now join Australia, South Africa, and England in the semifinals.
Batting first, India set a solid foundation with composed knocks from the top order and key contributions from the middle. Consistent partnerships and smart strike rotation ensured a competitive total on the board. When it was India’s turn to defend, the bowling attack rose to the occasion — maintaining relentless pressure through disciplined pace and spin. Early breakthroughs derailed New Zealand’s chase, and despite moments of resistance, India’s bowlers sealed the win with control and composure.
This victory not only secured India’s semifinal place but also highlighted the team’s growing consistency and mental toughness on the global stage. With every match, they continue to demonstrate balance, adaptability, and depth — hallmarks of a side ready to challenge for the title.
India’s women’s cricket team delivered a resounding performance to clinch the final semifinal spot in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, defeating New Zealand by 53 runs via the DLS method at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.
Match Highlights
- India Innings: After being asked to bat first, India posted a record-breaking 340/3 in 49 overs, their highest-ever World Cup total.
- Smriti Mandhana dazzled with 109 off 95 balls, earning Player of the Match honors.
- Pratika Rawal smashed 122 off 134 balls, marking her second WODI century and becoming joint-fastest to 1,000 ODI runs.
- Jemimah Rodrigues added a fiery 76 off 55 balls, accelerating the scoring in the final overs.
- New Zealand Chase: Due to rain delays, the target was revised to 325 in 44 overs. New Zealand fought valiantly but fell short, finishing at 271/8.
- Brooke Halliday top-scored with 81 off 84 balls.
- Isabella Gaze contributed a solid 51, but the Indian bowling attack held firm.
Key Takeaways
- India’s 212-run opening partnership between Mandhana and Rawal set the tone for the match.
- The win snapped India’s three-match losing streak and secured their place in the final four.
- India joins Australia, South Africa, and England in the semifinals, finishing fourth in the league stage.
With momentum on their side and a rejuvenated batting lineup, India heads into the semifinals with renewed confidence and a nation behind them.
India vice-captain Smriti Mandhana described qualifying for the Women’s World Cup semifinals as “a big relief,” as the team bounced back from three successive defeats after starting the tournament as one of the favourites.
“For sure, it’s a big relief in terms of qualifying. The last three games were really tough. We thought we played some good cricket but just couldn’t win, so this is really relieving,” Mandhana said at the post-match presentation.
Source: Live Online Match View
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