Fri Oct 24 10:10:00 UTC 2025: India Dominates New Zealand, Secures Semifinal Spot in Women’s World Cup

October 23, [City, India] – A commanding batting performance spearheaded by centuries from Pratika Rawal and Smriti Mandhana propelled India to a decisive 53-run victory (DLS method) over New Zealand, securing their place in the semifinals of the 2025 Women’s World Cup. Jemimah Rodrigues’ explosive return to the XI further fueled India’s dominance, as the hosts posted a formidable 340/3 – their highest-ever World Cup total.

After losing the toss, India initially adopted a cautious approach before unleashing a flurry of boundaries. Mandhana, as she so often does, set the tone with aggressive hitting, while Rawal provided solid support. Their partnership blossomed, rewriting records as they raced past 100. Mandhana reached her 14th ODI century, while Rawal soon followed with her maiden World Cup ton.

Rodrigues then entered, injecting further momentum into the innings with a rapid-fire 76*. A brief rain interruption couldn’t dampen India’s spirit, as they returned to add crucial runs and set a daunting target for New Zealand.

Chasing a revised target of 325 in 44 overs, New Zealand faltered early, losing Suzie Bates cheaply. India’s bowlers maintained relentless pressure, restricting the scoring and claiming key wickets. Renuka Singh Thakur shone with 2/25, dismantling the top order. Brooke Halliday (81) and Isabelle Gaze (65*) offered resistance, but the required run rate proved insurmountable. Ultimately, New Zealand fell short, ensuring India’s triumphant march into the World Cup semifinals.

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