India’s Stunning Comeback: How Mandhana & Rawal Sealed Semi-Final Spot

India’s Stunning Comeback: How Mandhana & Rawal Sealed Semi-Final Spot

In a breathtaking display of skill and resilience, the Indian women’s cricket team has stormed into the semi-finals of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025. After a nerve-wracking series of three consecutive defeats, the team delivered a masterclass performance against New Zealand, winning by a commanding 53 runs via the DLS method .

A Batting Masterclass for the Ages

The story of India’s victory was written with the bat. Openers Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal authored a historic partnership, both notching up magnificent centuries. Mandhana’s elegant 109 and Rawal’s powerful 122 laid a rock-solid foundation, taking the team to a formidable total of 340/3 in their 49 overs .

But the fireworks didn’t stop there. Coming in at number three, Jemimah Rodrigues, returning to the side after a brief absence, played a blistering, unbeaten knock of 76 off just 55 balls, ensuring India posted their highest total of the tournament .

From the Brink to the Semi-Finals

Just days ago, India’s World Cup campaign was hanging by a thread after three straight losses. The pressure was immense, but the team’s response was emphatic. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur captured the team’s spirit perfectly: “Knew how important this game was, entire team was charged up” .

This victory wasn’t just about qualification; it was a statement of intent. It showcased a team that could absorb pressure, learn from its mistakes, and deliver when it mattered most.

Bowling with Precision

Chasing a revised target of 325 in 44 overs, New Zealand’s hopes were quickly dented by India’s disciplined bowling attack. Pacers Renuka Singh and Gaud were exceptional, picking up two wickets each and never allowing the Kiwi batters to settle. Despite a fighting 81 from Halliday, New Zealand was restricted to 271/8, falling well short of the target .

Key Performers at a Glance

Player	Role	Performance
Pratika Rawal	Batter	122 runs
Smriti Mandhana	Batter	109 runs
Jemimah Rodrigues	Batter	76* runs
Renuka Singh	Bowler	2/25
Gaud	Bowler	2/48

What’s Next for Team India?

With their semi-final berth secured, the focus now shifts to the knockout stage. The hard work has just begun, as Harmanpreet Kaur herself acknowledged . The team will look to carry this momentum forward and aim for the ultimate prize on home soil.

Sources

• Times of India: Harmanpreet Kaur on India qualifying for semi-finals
• ICC Official Match Report