Cricket fans around the world witnessed history as India Women delivered one of the most stunning performances in World Cup history, defeating Australia Women by five wickets in the semifinal of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 in Hamilton.
Chasing a massive target of 339 runs, India pulled off the highest successful run chase in women’s ODI history, with Jemimah Rodrigues leading the charge through a masterful unbeaten 127-run knock. Her calm under pressure and intelligent shot selection guided India to victory with nine balls to spare.
India’s top order showed maturity and aggression. Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma provided a brisk start, while captain Harmanpreet Kaur played a valuable supporting innings in the middle. The win sent India soaring into the final, sparking celebrations across the country.
Australia Shocked by India’s Dominance
Defending champions Australia entered the semifinal as heavy favorites after an unbeaten run in the group stage. Their batters posted a strong total, powered by a half-century from Beth Mooney and quick runs from Tahlia McGrath. However, their bowlers failed to contain India’s fearless batting display.
Captain Alyssa Healy, who confirmed this was her final Women’s World Cup, admitted the loss was “heartbreaking” but praised India’s performance as “a reminder of how far women’s cricket has come.”
A New Era for Indian Women’s Cricket
This win isn’t just about reaching the final; it marks the arrival of a new era for Indian women’s cricket. The team’s balance, composure, and confidence reflect years of growth and hard work.
With Jemimah Rodrigues emerging as a true superstar and veterans like Harmanpreet Kaur guiding the side, India now stands just one step away from their first-ever Women’s World Cup title.
My Analysis: India’s fearless approach is what separates them from past generations. They didn’t play safe; they attacked one of the world’s best bowling attacks with intent. It’s the kind of cricket that wins not just matches but hearts.
India Men’s Team Faces Tough Start in Australia
While the women soared to glory, the Indian men’s T20 team had a rough start to their Australia tour.
The first T20I was abandoned due to rain after India got off to a fiery start at 97/1 in 9.4 overs. However, in the second T20I at Melbourne, India’s batting lineup faltered badly, bowled out for just 125 runs in 18.4 overs.
Australia’s bowling, led by Josh Hazlewood, dismantled India’s top order early. Despite a brief counterattack from Suryakumar Yadav, India never fully recovered.
A Wake-Up Call for India’s Men’s Team
For a side known for its depth, India’s T20 collapse was concerning. Their shot selection under pressure and lack of middle-order stability once again became evident.
My Take: India’s T20 side needs to rebuild its rhythm. With younger talents like Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill in the mix, this series is an opportunity to test new combinations. But they’ll have to find consistency fast -especially against a disciplined Australian attack.
What’s Next
- Women’s Team: India will play in the Women’s World Cup Final, eyeing their maiden title and a chance to create cricketing history.
- Men’s Team: The remaining T20Is in Australia will be crucial for regaining form and confidence before the upcoming international season.
Final Thoughts
It’s been a week of contrasting emotions for Indian cricket, jubilation from the women’s record-breaking victory and frustration from the men’s early T20 struggles. Yet, both stories show one truth: Indian cricket continues to evolve, fight, and inspire.
Fans now eagerly await whether Jemimah Rodrigues and her team can bring home the ultimate prize — and whether India’s men can bounce back stronger down under.
