Table of Contents
- Record-Breaking Innings Against Australia
- Tearful Hug with Parents After Victory
- Overcoming Anxiety on the Global Stage
- How Faith Fueled Her Comeback
- What This Win Means for Indian Women’s Cricket
- Sources
Jemimah Rodrigues’ Century Sends India to World Cup Final
In a performance that will be etched into cricketing history, Jemimah Rodrigues smashed a breathtaking, unbeaten century against Australia in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 semifinal—propelling India into the final and silencing critics who doubted her under pressure.
Batting with poise, precision, and power rarely seen in high-stakes knockout games, the 24-year-old Delhi star scored 112* off just 108 balls, laced with 14 boundaries and two towering sixes. Her knock wasn’t just statistically dominant—it was emotionally resonant, coming after weeks of internal struggle and public scrutiny.
Tearful Hug with Parents After Victory
The moment the winning runs crossed the boundary, Jemimah dropped to her knees, overcome with emotion. Within seconds, her parents—seated in the stands at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium—rushed onto the field (with security’s reluctant blessing) for a tearful embrace that brought fans and commentators alike to tears.
“This is for them,” Jemimah later said in a choked-up post-match interview. “They never stopped believing in me, even when I stopped believing in myself.” The viral video of the reunion has since amassed over 10 million views across social platforms.
Overcoming Anxiety on the Global Stage
Unbeknownst to many viewers, Jemimah had been quietly battling performance anxiety throughout the tournament. Team sources revealed she sought counseling after a string of low scores in the group stage and struggled with sleep and self-doubt.
“There were nights I couldn’t eat,” she admitted. “I kept thinking, ‘What if I let the team down again?’ But my teammates held me up. Harmanpreet [Kaur] told me, ‘Your time is coming. Just stay ready.’”
How Faith Fueled Her Comeback
Jemimah credits her Catholic faith as a cornerstone of her resilience. Before walking out to bat, she knelt in prayer near the dressing room—a ritual she’s maintained since her U-19 days. “I don’t ask for runs,” she explained. “I ask for peace. And today, I felt it.”
Her calm demeanor during Australia’s high-pressure bowling attack—featuring Megan Schutt, Darcie Brown, and Ashleigh Gardner—stood in stark contrast to her earlier hesitations in the tournament. Analysts noted her improved footwork and shot selection, particularly against spin.
What This Win Means for Indian Women’s Cricket
India’s victory marks their first World Cup final appearance since 2017. With Jemimah leading the charge, the team now faces South Africa in what promises to be a historic clash.
Jemimah Rodrigues – Key Stats in ICC Women’s World Cup 2025
| Matches | 8 |
|---|---|
| Runs | 387 |
| Highest Score | 112* |
| Strike Rate | 84.6 |
| Catches | 6 |
Cricket analysts say her semifinal century could be a turning point—not just for the tournament, but for her career. Once labeled “inconsistent,” Jemimah has now proven she can deliver when it matters most.