Jemimah Rodrigues’ historic knock powers India to final after beating Australia

MAHARASHTRA: India have qualified for the final of the Women’s World Cup after defeating Australia by five wickets in the second semi-final, thanks to a record-breaking innings by top-order batter Jemimah Rodrigues.

Playing at DY Patil Stadium, Rodrigues played a crucial role in chasing down Australia’s mammoth total, as India reached the 339-run target with nine balls to spare, finishing at 5 wickets down. The right-handed batter scored a match-winning 127 runs, bringing the Women in Blue one step closer to the coveted trophy.

Rodrigues’ remarkable innings included 14 boundaries, while captain Harmanpreet Kaur provided strong support, scoring 89 runs to help India seal the victory.

For Australia, Kim Garth and Annabel Sutherland took two wickets each.

Batting first, Australia posted a commanding total of 338 runs, with Phoebe Litchfield smashing 119 off 93 balls, hitting 17 fours and 3 sixes. All-rounder Ellyse Perry scored 77, while Ashleigh Gardner contributed 63 runs.

From India’s bowling attack, Shrey Charani and Deepti Sharma picked up two wickets each.

Earlier in the day, South Africa made history by defeating England in the semi-final of the Women’s World Cup.

The final of the Women’s World Cup between hosts India and South Africa will be played on November 2.