THE ASIAN INDEPENDENT UK
Bal Ram Sampla
Geopolitics
India produced a scintillating batting display to thrash New Zealand and secure their place in the semi-finals of the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025. After suffering three consecutive defeats to South Africa, Australia, and England, India bounced back in spectacular fashion when it mattered most, posting their highest-ever World Cup total before rain intervened to seal a comprehensive victory
Batting first, India amassed a mammoth 340/3 in 49 overs, with three batters producing exceptional performances that will be remembered for years to come.
The foundation was laid by a sensational 212-run opening partnership between Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal – India’s best opening stand of the tournament. The duo batted with authority and freedom, dismantling the New Zealand bowling attack.
Pratika Rawal matched her opening partner stroke for stroke, compiling a magnificent 122 off 134 balls. Her maiden World Cup century, decorated with 13 fours and 2 sixes, showcased maturity beyond her years. The innings was even more remarkable as it saw Rawal become the joint-fastest batter to reach 1000 ODI runs, achieving the milestone in just 23 innings. Her ability to rotate strike while punishing anything loose proved crucial in maintaining the momentum.
Jemimah’s Finishing Touch
With the platform set, Jemimah Rodrigues provided the late fireworks with an unbeaten 76. Her knock ensured India capitalized fully on the brilliant start, accelerating when needed and guiding India past the 340-mark. The innings exemplified her growing reputation as one of the most versatile batters in women’s cricket.
New Zealand’s Chase Derailed
Chasing a revised target after rain interruptions, New Zealand were set 287 runs from 41 overs under the DLS method. Despite a brave effort, the White Ferns were restricted to 233, falling 53 runs short (56 runs by the original DLS calculation) as India’s bowlers backed up the batters’ heroics.
Tournament Context
The victory was crucial for India’s semi-final hopes. Coming into the match on the back of three straight losses, India needed to win and hope other results went their way. While New Zealand’s campaign was hampered by two rain-affected washouts against Sri Lanka and Pakistan – denying them potential points that could have changed their fate – India took full advantage of their opportunity.
India finished fourth on the points table with four points, securing the final semi-final berth ahead of New Zealand on net run rate. They join Australia, South Africa, and England in the knockout stages.
Player of the Match
Pratika Rawal’s maiden World Cup century and record-equalling feat of reaching 1000 ODI runs in just 23 innings made her the standout performer in a match filled with individual brilliance.
India defeated New Zealand by 56 runs (DLS method)
India 340-4 49 overs
NZ 271-8 44 overs
