The Indian Women’s Cricket Team has rewritten history by chasing down 338 runs against Australia to reach the Women’s World Cup Final. This extraordinary performance marks the highest successful run chase in women’s ODI history, solidifying India’s position as a global cricket powerhouse.
Rodrigues Leads India to a Landmark Win
Jemimah Rodrigues delivered a masterclass in batting, scoring an unbeaten 127 runs that guided India to victory with nine balls to spare. Facing the world champions, Rodrigues showed calm under pressure and resilience embodying the team’s belief in itself.
Dropped three times by Australia, Rodrigues capitalized on every chance, converting pressure into performance. Her partnership with Harmanpreet Kaur, who struck a fluent 89, was the backbone of India’s pursuit. Together, they steadied the innings and turned a daunting total into a dream finish.
Australia’s Early Dominance Tested
Australia entered as favourites after Phoebe Litchfield’s explosive 100 off 77 balls, the fastest century in a World Cup knockout match. Their total of 338 looked insurmountable, but India’s disciplined middle overs and calm approach under pressure proved decisive.
Despite being on the back foot early, the Indian bowlers maintained focus, ensuring the match remained within reach. That control allowed the batters to build momentum without losing composure.
Turning Point: Composure Under Pressure
The dismissal of Harmanpreet Kaur with 113 still needed could have swung momentum Australia’s way. Instead, Rodrigues anchored the innings with maturity far beyond her years. Supported by Amanjot Kaur, who struck the winning runs, India completed the chase in front of an electrified Mumbai crowd.
The 48th over from Annabel Sutherland, which cost 15 runs, became the moment when belief turned into inevitability India’s chase was unstoppable.
Rise of Indian Women’s Cricket
This victory reflects years of progress in Indian women’s cricket. From domestic leagues to international exposure, the Indian women’s game has evolved rapidly. Today, India is no longer the underdog it is a confident, competitive force on the world stage.
Rodrigues’ performance stands as a testament to self-belief and perseverance. “It wasn’t about proving a point,” she said post-match. “It was about winning for India.”
The Road Ahead: Final Against South Africa
India now faces South Africa in the World Cup final at the Wankhede Stadium a contest that promises to be equally thrilling. With the confidence of a record chase behind them, Team India enters the final as a team united by belief and purpose.This victory transcends cricket. It symbolizes the power of Nari Shakti, the spirit of teamwork, and the growing impact of women in Indian sports. As the tricolour waved high in Mumbai, one message became clear Indian women are not just competing; they are leading.