India Reach Women’s World Cup Semi-Finals — Hosts Into the Last Four After Big Win
India’s women have done it — the hosts have booked their place in the ICC Women’s World Cup semi-finals with a commanding victory over New Zealand in Navi Mumbai. After a shaky middle stretch in the group stage, a brilliant batting display and disciplined bowling effort helped India secure their sixth entry into the last four of the Women’s World Cup.
What Happened: The Match That Sealed It
In a must-win encounter, India delivered one of their most dominant performances of the tournament. Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal produced a record-breaking opening partnership, both scoring centuries and setting up India’s highest-ever total in Women’s World Cup history. Their aggressive yet calculated batting left New Zealand bowlers helpless and the crowd roaring with pride.
When New Zealand came out to chase, India’s bowlers showed composure under pressure. The spin duo of Deepti Sharma and Rajeshwari Gayakwad applied relentless pressure, while pacers Renuka Singh and Pooja Vastrakar picked up crucial wickets. Despite a valiant effort from the Kiwi batters, the target proved too steep, and India sealed victory comfortably under the DLS method after rain interruptions.
Standout Performers
Smriti Mandhana’s fluent stroke play and Pratika Rawal’s fearless hitting were the highlights of the match. Their partnership laid the foundation, while Jemimah Rodrigues added a quickfire unbeaten 76 to propel the total beyond reach. On the bowling front, Deepti Sharma’s economical spell and Renuka Singh’s early breakthroughs ensured New Zealand never truly settled.
Why This Qualification Matters
Reaching the Women’s World Cup semi-finals at home is a massive moment for Indian cricket. The Women’s World Cup remains the most prestigious stage in one-day international cricket, and India’s consistent performance reflects how far the women’s game has evolved in the country. This qualification is not just about reaching another knockout round — it’s a statement of intent that India’s women’s team has arrived as a global powerhouse.
A Look Back: India’s World Cup Journey So Far
This is the sixth time India have made it to the semi-finals of the Women’s World Cup. Their previous appearances came in 1978, 1997, 2000, 2005, and 2017 — with finals appearances in 2005 and 2017. Each campaign brought new stars and unforgettable moments, but 2025 feels different. This team combines youth, aggression, and experience — a blend that’s driving India toward a potential maiden title.
What the Numbers Say
India’s path to the semi-final wasn’t straightforward. After losing three games in the middle of the tournament, the hosts bounced back strongly with back-to-back wins. Their net run rate remained healthy throughout, thanks to strong batting displays and dominant victories over England and South Africa earlier in the competition. This resilience under pressure ultimately proved crucial in securing a top-four spot in the Women’s World Cup standings.
What to Expect in the Semi-Final
India will likely face one of the tournament’s strongest teams — either Australia or England — in the semi-final. To progress further, India must continue their aggressive approach at the top of the order while maintaining tight discipline in the bowling department. The key will be balancing fearless batting with tactical awareness, especially against sides with world-class depth and experience.
The conditions at the semi-final venue will play a role too. If spin comes into play, India’s bowlers could be a real threat. With Mandhana, Rawal, and Rodrigues in form, India’s batting looks as strong as ever, while the bowling unit has the variety to adapt to any situation.
Player Spotlight: The Rise of a Confident Generation
One of the most encouraging aspects of this Women’s World Cup campaign has been the rise of India’s young talent. Players like Pratika Rawal, Shafali Verma, and Richa Ghosh have showcased fearless cricket — something that sets this generation apart. They’re not afraid to play bold shots or challenge big moments. Combined with the steady leadership of Harmanpreet Kaur and the experience of Mandhana and Deepti Sharma, this team has found a perfect balance of youth and maturity.
What This Means for Women’s Cricket in India
Beyond the numbers, this achievement is a major boost for women’s sports in India. Every victory in a global tournament brings increased visibility, sponsorship, and grassroots participation. Young girls watching this Women’s World Cup will see role models they can aspire to be.
The Women’s Premier League (WPL) has already started transforming the domestic game, and this World Cup success will accelerate that progress. If India can make it to the final — or even lift the trophy — it could mark a turning point in how women’s cricket is perceived and supported across the country.
Quick FAQs About India’s Women’s World Cup Journey
Q: Who did India beat to reach the semi-finals?
India defeated New Zealand in a rain-affected match to qualify for the Women’s World Cup semi-finals.
Q: How many times has India reached the Women’s World Cup semi-finals?
This is India’s sixth semi-final appearance in Women’s World Cup history — after 1978, 1997, 2000, 2005, and 2017.
Q: Who were the standout players in the crucial match?
Smriti Mandhana, Pratika Rawal, and Jemimah Rodrigues with the bat; Deepti Sharma and Renuka Singh with the ball.
Q: Can India win the Women’s World Cup this year?
Yes, with the momentum they have now and the home crowd behind them, India are strong contenders for the title.
Final Thoughts: A Confident Step Toward Glory
India’s qualification for the Women’s World Cup semi-finals marks another proud chapter in the country’s cricketing journey. The players have shown grit, teamwork, and resilience — qualities that define champions. While tougher challenges await in the knockout rounds, the team’s form and confidence suggest that India are ready to chase history.
As the Women’s World Cup heads into its most thrilling stage, fans can expect more fireworks, intense battles, and possibly a moment that defines the future of Indian women’s cricket. The dream of lifting the trophy is alive — and this time, it feels closer than ever.
Also Read: It’s not easy, I’ve worked really hard: Rawal after her 122(134)
