India Women sealed their spot in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 semifinals with a commanding 53-run win over New Zealand in Navi Mumbai. Smriti Mandhana’s century and disciplined bowling led the charge. India posted 340/3 and restricted New Zealand to 271/8, securing their fourth knockout berth in style.
In a high-stakes encounter at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai, the India Women’s cricket team delivered a clinical performance to defeat New Zealand Women by 53 runs and book their place in the semifinals of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025. The match, held on October 23, was a virtual quarterfinal, with the winner securing the last remaining knockout spot.
🏏 Match Highlights:
India’s Batting Brilliance
India posted a formidable 340/3 in 49 overs, powered by Smriti Mandhana’s 109 off 95 balls, earning her the Player of the Match award.
Support came from Jemimah Rodrigues, who returned to the XI and contributed crucial runs, and Harmanpreet Kaur, who anchored the middle overs.
New Zealand’s Response Falters
Chasing a revised target under DLS, New Zealand managed 271/8 in 44 overs, falling short by 53 runs.
Despite a valiant 81-run effort from Brooke Halliday, the White Ferns couldn’t keep up with the required rate.
Bowling Impact
India’s bowlers, led by Renuka Thakur and Pratika Rawal, struck early blows, including the key wicket of Sophie Devine.
Kranti Gaud and Deepti Sharma maintained pressure through the middle overs, ensuring regular breakthroughs.
Toss and Strategy
New Zealand won the toss and opted to bowl first, hoping to exploit early conditions.
India’s aggressive batting nullified the advantage, setting a daunting total.
Tournament Implications
With this win, India joins Australia, England, and South Africa in the semifinals.
The victory also boosts team morale after earlier losses to top contenders.
Fan and Media Reaction
Social media lit up with praise for Mandhana and the team’s resilience.
Analysts hailed India’s tactical execution and depth in both batting and bowling.
India’s emphatic win not only secures their semifinal berth but also sends a strong message to rivals ahead of the knockout rounds.
Sources: ICC Match Report, Republic World