Hamilton

A dazzling unbeaten century from Jemimah Rodrigues and a commanding knock from skipper Harmanpreet Kaur powered India into the final of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, as they scripted a record five-wicket victory over Australia in the second semifinal on Thursday.

Chasing a daunting target of 339, India pulled off their highest-ever successful run chase in women’s ODIs, finishing at 341 for 5 with nine balls to spare. Rodrigues was the architect of the triumph, crafting a fluent 127 not out off 134 balls, studded with 13 fours and two sixes. She found a reliable partner in captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who struck a spirited 89 off 88 deliveries, ensuring India stayed on course throughout the chase.

Australia had earlier posted a formidable 338 all out, built on a scintillating century from Phoebe Litchfield (119 off 93 balls). Her aggressive start, along with contributions from Ellyse Perry (67) and Beth Mooney (52), helped the defending champions set what seemed a near-insurmountable total. However, Indian bowlers led by Pooja Vastrakar (3/58) and Rajeshwari Gayakwad (2/63) managed to apply brakes in the latter overs, preventing an even bigger score.

India's Jemimah Rodrigues and Amanjot Kaur react after winning in the ICC Women's World Cup semifinal ODI 

India’s reply began steadily, with openers Shafali Verma (41) and Smriti Mandhana (37) laying the platform with a 72-run stand. The real momentum shift came when Rodrigues and Harmanpreet joined forces for a 148-run partnership, blending caution with controlled aggression. Even after Harmanpreet’s dismissal in the 42nd over, Deepti Sharma (24) and Richa Ghosh (26) kept the chase alive, before Rodrigues fittingly struck the winning runs.

With this emphatic victory, India booked their place in the final against South Africa, scheduled for Sunday, in what promises to be a thrilling contest between two in-form sides.

Rodrigues, who was named Player of the Match, dedicated her innings to the team’s collective belief and composure.

“It was all about staying calm and trusting the process. Harman di and I just wanted to take it deep, and it worked,” she said post-match.

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The result ends Australia’s dominant run in the tournament and sets up India’s third-ever appearance in a Women’s World Cup final, a chance to finally lift the elusive trophy.