India’s resurgence in the Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 came at a crucial time as vice-captain Smriti Mandhana led from the front, guiding the team to a 53-run victory over New Zealand via the DLS method on Thursday (October 23). The win sealed India’s place in the semifinals of the Women’s Cricket World Cup, joining Australia, South Africa, and England.
Mandhana and Pratika’s Record Stand Powers India
Mandhana, who has been India’s standout performer throughout the Women’s Cricket World Cup, smashed a stunning 109 — her fifth century of the year — while opening partner Pratika Rawal registered her maiden Women’s Cricket World Cup hundred with a brilliant 122. Their 212-run stand for the first wicket was India’s highest-ever partnership in the Women’s Cricket World Cup, powering the team to a formidable 340/3 in 49 overs. The total surpassed India’s previous best of 330 against Australia earlier in the tournament.
After a rain interruption, New Zealand’s revised target of 325 in 44 overs proved too steep as they were restricted to 271/8. The victory, marked by disciplined bowling and sharp fielding, ensured India’s survival in a tournament where three back-to-back defeats had left their campaign hanging by a thread.
Relief and Resolve in the Indian Camp
Speaking after the win, Mandhana expressed her emotions, calling qualification “a big relief” for the team. “The last three games were really tough, but this win feels special. Pratika deserved the Player of the Match award as much as I did,” she said. Mandhana’s calmness under pressure has been one of India’s biggest assets in this Women’s Cricket World Cup.
Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur lauded her players for their resilience, saying, “We knew how important this match was. Smriti and Pratika gave us the start we needed. The team showed great character to bounce back in this Women’s Cricket World Cup.”
For New Zealand, it was another disappointing outing in what skipper Sophie Devine termed a “frustrating tournament.” With this loss, the White Ferns crashed out of the Women’s Cricket World Cup, ending their campaign on a low note.
As India heads into the semifinals of the Women’s Cricket World Cup, confidence and momentum have returned — and with Mandhana in top form, the dream of lifting the trophy at home remains very much alive.
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