From the brink of elimination to the cusp of glory, the India Women’s cricket team has scripted a comeback for the ages at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. After a mid-tournament crisis that saw them suffer three consecutive defeats, the Women in Blue have roared back with a steely resolve, culminating in a record-shattering performance to reach the final against South Africa.
Table of Contents
- The Mid-Tournament Slump
- The Dramatic Turnaround
- Jemimah Rodrigues’ Semifinal Masterclass
- Final Showdown: India vs South Africa
- India’s Road to the Final: A Quick Recap
The Mid-Tournament Slump
Just a few weeks ago, the dream of a World Cup title seemed to be slipping away for Harmanpreet Kaur’s side. Following a promising start, the team hit a rough patch with three straight losses that left their semifinal hopes in serious jeopardy. Questions were being asked about their consistency and mental fortitude under pressure.
The Dramatic Turnaround
What followed was a masterclass in resilience. The team regrouped, refocused, and delivered two crucial, high-stakes victories against New Zealand and the defending champions, Australia. These wins weren’t just about staying alive in the tournament; they were a powerful statement of intent, showcasing a newfound grit and tactical brilliance.
Jemimah Rodrigues’ Semifinal Masterclass
The semifinal against Australia was a clash for the ages. Chasing a mammoth target of 339, a record in Women’s ODI history, India needed a hero. They found one in Jemimah Rodrigues. Walking in at number three, she played the innings of her life, remaining unbeaten on a magnificent 127 off just 134 balls . Her knock, studded with 14 boundaries, was a perfect blend of grace and power, guiding India to a stunning five-wicket victory with 9 balls to spare . This wasn’t just a win; it was a historic moment that announced India’s arrival as a dominant force.
Final Showdown: India vs South Africa
Now, the stage is set for the ultimate battle. India will face a formidable South Africa side in the final, a team that has also shown incredible skill and determination throughout the tournament. The clash will take place on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai . For India, it’s a chance to lift their first-ever ODI World Cup trophy on home soil, a moment that could redefine women’s cricket in the country.
India’s Road to the Final: A Quick Recap
| Match | Result | Key Performer |
|---|---|---|
| vs New Zealand | Win | Team Effort |
| vs Australia (League) | Loss | – |
| vs South Africa (League) | Loss | – |
| vs England | Loss | – |
| vs Australia (Semi-Final) | Win (Chased 339) | Jemimah Rodrigues (127*) |
Their journey is a testament to the power of never giving up. After being written off, they have fought their way back to the biggest stage in women’s cricket.