A fearless Jemimah Rodrigues delivered the performance of her career, scoring an unbeaten 127 off 134 balls, as India successfully chased down a record 339 to secure their place in the Women’s ODI World Cup final on Thursday. Historic Chase at DY Patil Stadium, India achieved the highest chase in Women’s ODIs, reaching 341/5 in 48.3 overs. Jemimah and captain Harmanpreet Kaur (89 off 88 balls) formed a pivotal 167-run partnership for the third wicket, ending Australia’s 15-match World Cup winning streak. Tears of joy were evident for Team India as they finally triumphed after years of disappointment in knockouts. Both Harmanpreet and Jemimah were visibly emotional after clinching this significant win.
India will now face South Africa in the final on Sunday, marking the potential for a first-time champion. India’s chase began poorly with Shafali Verma dismissed for 10 and Smriti Mandhana (24) falling in the 10th over, leaving the team at 59/2. However, Jemimah and Harmanpreet steadied the innings with their composed batting. Jemimah entered during the second over and played with remarkable patience and skill, hitting 14 fours and remaining not out, even as fatigue set in. The crowd at DY Patil Stadium cheered her every shot as she led India to victory. Despite being dropped twice—once on 82 and again on 106—Jemimah capitalized on her opportunities.
Harmanpreet also played freely once settled, hitting two sixes and ten fours before getting out. Earlier, Australia had set a challenging total of 338, led by Phoebe Litchfield’s impressive 119 off 93 balls, with support from Ellyse Perry (77) and Ashleigh Gardner (63). India managed to fight back late despite some sloppy fielding, with Shree Charani (2/49) taking crucial wickets. Litchfield’s impressive century, which included 17 fours and 3 sixes, ultimately went in vain as India’s determined chase, spearheaded by Jemimah and Harmanpreet, overturned the situation and resulted in a rare defeat for Australia. The final score was India defeating Australia by 5 wickets: India 341/5 (48.3 overs), Australia 338 (49.5 overs).
Next Match: World Cup Final — India vs South Africa, Sunday.