India secured their place in the Women’s ODI World Cup semifinals, overcoming recent pressure with a 53-run victory (DLS method) over New Zealand on Thursday. Played at a packed D.Y. Patil Stadium, the virtual quarterfinal saw India bounce back from three straight defeats, powered by centuries from openers Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal.
Put in to bat after losing the toss, India amassed 340 for three in a rain-reduced 49 overs. Mandhana, 109 off 95 balls and Rawal 122 off 134 balls laid the platform with a record 212-run opening partnership; India's highest ever in a Women's World Cup. Rawal, whose strike rate had been questioned earlier in the tournament, became the joint-fastest woman to reach 1,000 ODI runs, in 23 innings. Mandhana struck her 17th international century before Jemimah Rodrigues, returning to the XI and promoted to No. 3, added a quickfire 76 not out off 55 balls.
Rain interrupted proceedings again, revising New Zealand's target to 325 runs in 44 overs. The White Ferns' chase never gained momentum after early blows from Kranti Gaud and Renuka Singh Thakur, the latter dismissing Georgia Plimmer, 30 and captain Sophie Devine 6. Amelia Kerr made 45, but wickets fell regularly. Brooke Halliday, 81 and Isabella Gaze, 76* provided late resistance with a 72-run stand, but the asking rate proved too steep as New Zealand finished on 271 for eight.
Player of the Match Smriti Mandhana expressed relief after the crucial win. “For sure, it’s a big relief in terms of qualifying. The last three games were really tough... this is really relieving,” she said, while adding that Rawal deserved the award just as much. On their successful partnership, Mandhana noted, “She’s a good anchor and really allows me to play my natural game. When she gets going, I can chip in with the anchor role.” Rawal commented on her approach: “Regarding the strike rate, there are certain templates that I like to play on... I just try to contribute whatever is best for the team.”
Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur credited the entire team's effort. “We knew how important this game was, the entire team was charged up, and I am happy with how we played today. Credit goes to Smriti and Pratika for the way they took responsibility.” New Zealand skipper Sophie Devine called it a "frustrating tournament," acknowledging, "Credit to them. Target was just too big for us.” The victory secures India's spot in the final four after an eight-year gap, joining Australia, South Africa, and England.
