Navi Mumbai witnessed a historic cricketing spectacle as India triumphed over defending champions Australia to reach the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 final. In a breathtaking display of batting prowess, India successfully chased down a mammoth target of 339, securing a memorable five-wicket victory in 48.3 overs. This chase is now recorded as the highest successful pursuit in the annals of Women’s ODI World Cup. The cornerstone of India’s triumph was an extraordinary unbeaten 127 by Jemimah Rodrigues, who batted with immense composure and skill to guide her team home.
Rodrigues arrived at the crease at number three, a tactical decision revealed to her just minutes before the innings began. Despite the surprise, she anchored the chase with a masterful performance, building a match-defining 167-run partnership with captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who contributed a valuable 89 runs. Their collaboration demoralized the Australian team and shifted the momentum decisively in India’s favor.
Speaking after the match, the Player of the Match, Rodrigues, shared her emotional state and the challenges she’s overcome. “I want to thank Jesus, could not do this on my own,” she began, acknowledging her support network. She admitted to facing significant mental health challenges and anxiety over the past month. “I have almost cried every day through this tour. Not doing well mentally, going through anxiety. I knew I had to show up,” she revealed. Rodrigues emphasized her primary goal was victory for India, stating, “Today was not about my fifty or my hundred, about making India win.” She also disclosed the late notification of her batting position, adding another layer of drama to her heroic performance. The innings was a testament to her belief and resilience, culminating in an unforgettable win for India.
