In one of the most unforgettable nights in women’s cricket history, India pulled off a record-breaking run chase to knock out defending champions Australia and book their place in the World Cup final. It was a night when nerves, drama, and redemption all collided — and Jemimah Rodrigues stood tall at the heart of it.
💥 Jemimah Rodrigues’ Redemption: From Doubt to Glory
Dropped not once, not twice, but three times — on 52, 83, and 106 — Rodrigues made Australia pay the ultimate price. She remained unbeaten on 127, guiding India to a stunning five-wicket victory with nine balls to spare.
Her innings was a masterclass in grit and grace. Australia’s fielding, so often their strongest weapon, suddenly looked shaky. Tahlia McGrath’s dropped catch running back from mid-off in the 44th over summed up the pressure that was creeping in.
When Annabel Sutherland bowled two wides in a chaotic 48th over that leaked 15 runs, the writing was on the wall. Amanjot Kaur finished things off in style, punching Sophie Molineux to the fence to seal victory — and spark scenes of pure jubilation at the Wankhede.
🏏 The Record-Breaking Chase
Chasing 339 — the highest total ever chased in women’s ODI history — India’s task looked near impossible. Especially after both openers fell cheaply in the powerplay.
But Harmanpreet Kaur (89 off 89) reignited belief, attacking with intent before a mistimed pull saw her dismissed with 113 still needed. The tension mounted when Deepti Sharma was run out and Richa Ghosh’s quickfire cameo ended prematurely.
Yet through it all, Rodrigues held her nerve. Each boundary was greeted with thunderous cheers from the Mumbai crowd, each single carrying the weight of a nation’s hopes.
When the winning runs came, Rodrigues raised her arms, eyes glistening. This wasn’t just a chase — it was a statement.
🗣️ “This Feels Like a Dream”
Speaking after the match, Rodrigues opened up emotionally:
“It was really hard these last 12 months… I cried every day throughout this tour. I was not doing well mentally, going through a lot of anxiety, and being dropped was a big challenge. But this wasn’t about proving a point — it was about winning for India.”
Her honesty struck a chord across the cricketing world. Less than two weeks ago, she was dropped from the XI. Now, she’s the face of one of India’s greatest cricketing triumphs.
🇦🇺 Australia’s Pain: “We Let Ourselves Down”
For the seven-time world champions, this was a rare off night. Alyssa Healy admitted as much:
“We created pressure and opportunities, but we just weren’t able to capitalise. That’s something Australia really prides itself on, and we let ourselves down.”
Their innings had started in blistering fashion. Phoebe Litchfield’s 77-ball century — the fastest ever in a World Cup knockout — gave Australia the perfect platform. Supported by Ellyse Perry’s steady fifty and Ash Gardner’s explosive cameo, they reached 338.
But once Litchfield was bowled trying a ramp shot off Amanjot Kaur, India clawed their way back. Deepti Sharma’s double strike in the final over capped off a spirited bowling performance that would prove crucial.
🇮🇳 On to the Final
India’s rollercoaster World Cup campaign now rolls into a dream final against South Africa, at the same venue, on Sunday.
From underdogs struggling in the group stage to giant-killers taking down the champions — India’s journey has been one of resilience, belief, and unyielding spirit.
And at its heart, Jemimah Rodrigues — once on the fringes, now a hero
Source: The Guardian
