IND-W vs NZ-W Match 24 Highlights for ICC WWC 2025
India storm into the semi-finals of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 after registering a commanding 53-run win (via DLS method) over New Zealand Women in Match 24 at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai. The high-stakes clash on Thursday turned into a memorable one for Indian fans as Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal led from the front with sensational centuries. So let’s look at IND-W vs NZ-W Match 24 Highlights for ICC WWC 2025.
India Seal Semi-Final Spot with Dominant Batting Display
In a rain-affected encounter, New Zealand skipper Sophie Devine won the toss and chose to bowl first. The decision backfired spectacularly as India Women posted 340/3 in 49 overs.
Openers Smriti Mandhana (109 off 95) and Pratika Rawal (122 off 134) put on a 212-run stand off 201 balls, laying the perfect platform for a massive total.
Following their departure, Jemimah Rodrigues added the finishing touches with a quickfire 76 off 55 balls*, ensuring India crossed the 300-run mark comfortably despite the shortened innings.
Revised Target and New Zealand’s Struggle in the Chase
Rain returned between innings, forcing a revised target of 325 in 44 overs for New Zealand. The White Ferns began positively, with Georgia Plimmer and Amelia Kerr finding early rhythm, but Renuka Singh’s disciplined spell derailed their momentum.
Renuka removed Plimmer and Devine in quick succession, finishing with impressive figures of 2/25 in 6 overs. Despite late resistance from Brooke Halliday (57) and Isabella Gaze (51), New Zealand fell short, ending on 271/8 in 44 overs.
Top Performers – Mandhana and Rawal Shine Bright
Smriti Mandhana’s Classy Century
Smriti Mandhana, who had been in great touch throughout the tournament, finally reached the three-figure mark. Her 109 off 95 balls featured 10 fours and four sixes, marking her 14th WODI century and first in the 2025 World Cup. The Indian vice-captain’s composure and timing anchored India’s innings from the start.
Pratika Rawal’s All-Round Brilliance
Youngster Pratika Rawal complemented Mandhana perfectly, scoring a stylish 122 off 134 balls. Her ability to rotate strike and accelerate when needed kept the scoreboard ticking. She also chipped in with a crucial wicket, showcasing her all-round value to the team.
Bowling Highlights – Renuka Singh Delivers Under Pressure
Right-arm seamer Renuka Singh produced a fiery spell under pressure. Her dismissal of New Zealand skipper Sophie Devine with a stunning delivery in the 12th over became one of the highlights of the match.
Renuka’s early breakthroughs set the tone for India’s defence, and her consistent accuracy ensured that the Kiwi chase never fully recovered.
Player of the Match – Smriti Mandhana
Smriti Mandhana was adjudged the Player of the Match for her match-winning 109-run knock and brilliant fielding effort, taking three catches in the second innings. Her innings not only guided India to a strong total but also underlined her status as one of the best batters in women’s cricket today.
Memorable Moments – Record Partnership and Historic Win
The 212-run opening partnership between Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal will be remembered as one of the finest in India’s Women’s World Cup history. It came in a must-win game, securing India’s sixth Women’s World Cup semi-final appearance.
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