India have secured their place in the Women's ODI World Cup 2025 final after defeating Australia by five wickets in a thrilling semifinal match. The Indian team successfully chased down a record target of 339 runs.
Jemimah Rodrigues played a magnificent unbeaten innings of 127 runs from 134 balls under pressure. She formed a crucial partnership of 167 runs with captain Harmanpreet Kaur , who scored 89 runs.
"There were no big messages. We always told each other we need to finish well. We usually start well, but finishing has been our area to improve. Today was that day," said Indian women's team coach Amol Muzumdar after the victory.
Muzumdar, who became the team's coach in October, has brought stability to the team with his composed approach. Despite group stage losses against Australia, England, and South Africa, he maintained clear objectives.
Before the semifinal match, Muzumdar's strategy was simple, writing just one line on the whiteboard: "We just need one more run than them to reach the final."
His bold decisions included backing young players Kranti Goud and Shree Charani, which proved successful.
"Kranti has been sensational since her debut. She's young, but she's done wonders with every opportunity. She's learning every day. Renuka Thakur complements her beautifully," Muzumdar stated.
The coach's decision to promote Rodrigues to the number three position was particularly effective.
"I always felt Jemi has the temperament to shift gears. That one move made a difference," Muzumdar added.
The coach acknowledged the contributions of senior players in the team's success.
"Harman was calm, smiling all the way through. Deepti kept motivating everyone, and Smriti was her usual cheerful self. Everyone knows their role, and that helps," Muzumdar expressed.
The team's loss to England in the group stage proved to be a turning point.
"The next practice session had more energy and intent. Sometimes it's not failure. It's just a hiccup that teaches you more... I am still in daze," Muzumdar reflected on the victory against Australia.
This victory marks India's third appearance in a Women's ODI World Cup final. The team showed remarkable resilience and skill in defeating the seven-time champions Australia.
Jemimah Rodrigues played a magnificent unbeaten innings of 127 runs from 134 balls under pressure. She formed a crucial partnership of 167 runs with captain Harmanpreet Kaur , who scored 89 runs.
"There were no big messages. We always told each other we need to finish well. We usually start well, but finishing has been our area to improve. Today was that day," said Indian women's team coach Amol Muzumdar after the victory.
Muzumdar, who became the team's coach in October, has brought stability to the team with his composed approach. Despite group stage losses against Australia, England, and South Africa, he maintained clear objectives.
Before the semifinal match, Muzumdar's strategy was simple, writing just one line on the whiteboard: "We just need one more run than them to reach the final."
His bold decisions included backing young players Kranti Goud and Shree Charani, which proved successful.
"Kranti has been sensational since her debut. She's young, but she's done wonders with every opportunity. She's learning every day. Renuka Thakur complements her beautifully," Muzumdar stated.
The coach's decision to promote Rodrigues to the number three position was particularly effective.
"I always felt Jemi has the temperament to shift gears. That one move made a difference," Muzumdar added.
The coach acknowledged the contributions of senior players in the team's success.
"Harman was calm, smiling all the way through. Deepti kept motivating everyone, and Smriti was her usual cheerful self. Everyone knows their role, and that helps," Muzumdar expressed.
The team's loss to England in the group stage proved to be a turning point.
"The next practice session had more energy and intent. Sometimes it's not failure. It's just a hiccup that teaches you more... I am still in daze," Muzumdar reflected on the victory against Australia.
This victory marks India's third appearance in a Women's ODI World Cup final. The team showed remarkable resilience and skill in defeating the seven-time champions Australia.
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