HAMILTON: India stormed into the semifinals of the Women’s World Cup with a commanding 53-run victory over New Zealand via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method on Thursday, thanks to spectacular centuries from Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal.
Asked to bat first, India posted a formidable 340 for three after the match was reduced to 49 overs per side following a rain interruption late in the innings. When rain returned during the innings break, the target for New Zealand was revised to 325 in 44 overs.
Despite a solid start, the White Ferns could only reach 271 for eight, as the Indian bowlers maintained control through the middle overs.
Mandhana and Rawal dominate with record partnership
Mandhana and Rawal were in sublime form, adding a 212-run stand for the second wicket that laid the perfect foundation for India’s highest-ever total in a World Cup match.
Mandhana struck 109 off 95 balls, laced with 13 boundaries and a six, while Rawal anchored the innings with a classy 122 from 134 deliveries.
Later, Jemimah Rodrigues provided the finishing flourish, smashing an unbeaten 76 off just 55 balls, propelling India well past the 300-run mark.
New Zealand fightback falls short
For New Zealand, Brooke Halliday top-scored with a valiant 81 from 84 balls, while Isabella Gaze chipped in with an unbeaten 65 off 51 balls. However, India’s disciplined bowling, led by Renuka Singh Thakur (2/25), restricted the hosts effectively.
India seals semifinal berth
This victory marked India’s third win in the tournament, taking them to six points and securing a semifinal spot alongside Australia, England, and South Africa.
The result also ended India’s streak of three consecutive defeats, reviving their campaign in emphatic fashion.