India’s stellar performance has earned them a coveted semifinal berth in the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup. They triumphed over New Zealand by 53 runs, employing the DLS method after a match interrupted by rain. India amassed a commanding 340/3 in 49 overs, with Smriti Mandhana scoring 109 and Pratika Rawal contributing 122. Jemimah Rodrigues also played a vital role with an unbeaten 76.
Chasing a recalculated target of 325 in 44 overs, New Zealand could only manage 271/8. Despite valiant efforts from Brooke Halliday, who scored 81, and Isabella Gaze, who remained not out on 65, New Zealand’s batting order couldn’t withstand India’s consistent pressure. The Indian bowlers, particularly Renuka Singh and Kranti Gaud who took two wickets each, applied the squeeze throughout the chase.
The Indian innings was a display of batting excellence. Mandhana’s century came off just 95 balls, while Rawal’s 122 was a testament to her endurance. Rodrigues’ aggressive hitting in the latter stages provided a significant boost to the final score. The rain interruptions led to a revised target, but India’s strong batting and disciplined bowling ensured their passage to the semifinals, showcasing their readiness for the tournament’s business end.