In a nail-biting Women's World Cup 2025 match at Indore, England won the toss, batted first, and set a challenging 288-run target. Despite heroic knocks by India's top batters, England clinched victory by just four runs, securing their semi-final spot. India now faces a must-win situation in the tournament.
The much-awaited Women's World Cup 2025 encounter between India Women and England Women at Indore delivered high drama and intense cricketing action. England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt won the toss and chose to bat first, aiming to capitalize on the fresh pitch and fast outfield. England made two changes, bringing in Sophie Ecclestone and Lauren Bell, while India introduced Renuka Singh in place of Jemimah Rodrigues.
England posted an imposing total of 288 for 8 in their 50 overs, powered by a commanding century from Heather Knight, who scored 109 runs off 91 balls including 15 fours and a six. Amy Jones supported with a steady 56 runs, helping England reach their highest first innings total against India in World Cup history.
India’s response was valiant, spearheaded by captain Harmanpreet Kaur (70) and skipper Smriti Mandhana, who scored a vital 88. Deepti Sharma supported with a valuable 50, crafting an intense chase. Despite the strong batting performance, India fell agonizingly short by 4 runs at 284 for 6 after their full quota of overs.
The contest went down to the wire with India requiring 14 runs off the final over but managing only 9, as England’s bowlers held their nerve in the death overs. Notably, off-spinner Deepti Sharma shone with figures of 4 wickets for 51 runs, and debutant Shree Charani also took 2 wickets, applying pressure in crucial moments.
With this victory, England confirmed their spot in the semi-finals alongside Australia and South Africa. India, having suffered their third consecutive defeat, now need wins in their remaining matches against New Zealand and Bangladesh to keep their semi-final hopes alive.
Key Highlights:
-
England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt won the toss and elected to bat first on a fresh pitch at Holkar Stadium, Indore.
-
Heather Knight’s 109-run innings marked her 300th international match and powered England to 288/8.
-
Amy Jones contributed a steady 56 runs as England posted their highest World Cup first innings total versus India.
-
India's top-order fightback led by Mandhana (88), Harmanpreet (70), and Deepti Sharma (50) fell just short by 4 runs.
-
Deepti Sharma's off-spin bowling (4/51) and debutant Shree Charani (2/68) sparked crucial late wickets for India.
-
India needed 14 runs in the final over but managed only 9, handing England the win.
-
The victory secures England’s semi-final berth while putting India under pressure to win remaining matches.
This thrilling encounter offered captivating drama and showcased the rising standards of women's cricket on the global stage. Fans can look forward to more intense battles as the Women's World Cup advances towards the knockouts.
Sources:
NDTV Sports, Times of India, Cricbuzz, Olympics.com, ESPN Cricinfo, Free Press Journal, News18