India Secures Historic ODI World Cup Final Berth with Record-Breaking Chase Against Australia
Navi Mumbai: In a historic cricketing achievement, India executed the highest successful run chase in women’s ODI history, defeating Australia in a dramatic World Cup semi-final at the DY Patil Stadium. Chasing a challenging target of 339, India faced early setbacks as openers Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana fell quickly. Nevertheless, Jemimah Rodrigues and captain Harmanpreet Kaur mounted a remarkable comeback, forging a resilient partnership that shifted the momentum of the match.
Jemimah Rodrigues, who had difficulty rotating the strike initially, demonstrated exceptional determination to finish unbeaten on 127, guiding her team to victory with poise. Harmanpreet Kaur provided crucial support with her well-crafted innings of 89, combining patience and power in her approach. Contributions from Deepti Sharma and Richa Ghosh towards the end ensured that India crossed the finish line with five wickets remaining.
The record-setting chase received wide acclaim, including praise from former India captain Virat Kohli, who highlighted the team’s spirit, determination, and self-belief. In a tweet, he commended Jemimah’s performance, calling it extraordinary, and celebrated the team’s remarkable achievement against a formidable opponent.
“What a victory by our team over a mighty opponent like Australia. A great chase by the girls and a standout performance by Jemimah in a big game. A true display of resilience, belief, and passion. Well done, Team India,” Kohli stated.
India Aims for First World Cup Title
Looking ahead, India will face South Africa in the ODI World Cup final on November 2. The Proteas previously defeated Harmanpreet Kaur’s side during the group stage and will aim to replicate that success. However, following their historic victory over Australia, India is expected to enter the final with heightened motivation and confidence.
South Africa also comes into the final on a high after securing a decisive win against England in the semi-finals. Both teams will bring significant motivation, setting the stage for an exhilarating final in Navi Mumbai, where the toss could again play a crucial role in deciding the match’s outcome.
