India ended their rough patch in the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 with a resounding 53-run (DLS) victory over New Zealand, securing their place in the semi-finals. The Women in Blue displayed an all-round performance led by Smriti Mandhana’s classy century and a strong partnership with Pratika Rawal.
The pair’s 212-run opening stand provided India with an ideal platform, helping them post a mammoth total of 340/3 in 49 overs. Jemimah Rodrigues chipped in with an unbeaten 76 to consolidate the innings. India’s bowlers then backed up the batters, restricting New Zealand to 271/8, ensuring a comfortable win.
Harmanpreet and Mandhana Reflect on Team’s Resilience
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur praised her team’s spirit after three consecutive defeats, crediting the players for maintaining belief and unity. She highlighted how Mandhana and Rawal’s partnership set the tone for the match and appreciated Jemimah’s return to form. Harmanpreet emphasised that playing at home brings immense expectations but encouraged her team to enjoy the atmosphere rather than feel pressured.
She added that the win reflected the team’s mental strength and their determination to bounce back at the right time. However, the skipper admitted that India’s bowling needed further improvement and called for greater consistency from the bowling unit in the knockout stage.
Smriti Mandhana, who was named Player of the Match, expressed relief and joy after her hundred ended a lean phase. She admitted feeling nervous early on but said she decided to play freely after a slow start.
Mandhana credited Rawal for her contribution and said the pair wanted to ensure a strong foundation. Her aggressive stroke play against pace helped India dominate the powerplay and set the tone for a big score.
New Zealand Fall Short Despite Late Resistance
New Zealand’s chase began poorly as they lost key wickets early, with Renuka Singh and Kranti Goud leading India’s attack. Despite a valiant fightback from Brooke Halliday (81) and Isabella Gaze (65*), the target proved too steep. New Zealand captain Sophie Devine admitted disappointment with the result, calling the campaign frustrating and acknowledging that India outplayed them. She, however, praised her team’s effort and fielding under pressure.
With this comprehensive win, India not only sealed a semi-final spot but also regained confidence at a crucial stage of the tournament. The commanding performance underscored India’s depth in batting and their growing momentum ahead of the knockout rounds.
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