Jemimah Rodrigues broke down to tears after guiding India to five-wicket win against Australia in theICC Women's World Cup 2025 semi-final played at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Chasing the colossal
target of 339, when India lost opener Shafali Verma early, Rodrigues stepped up against Australia's bowling attack. After Smriti Mandhana's dismissal, Indian supporters went quiet but Jemimah didn't lose hope and stitched a crucial 167-run stand with her captain Harmanpreet Kaur for the third wicket off just 156 balls. Kaur's innings ended after scoring 89 off 88 as Annabel Sutherland got her caught at the hands of Ashleigh Gardner.
However, Jemimah Rodrigues stayed at the crease until the end and assured that India complete the chase with nine balls to spare. Her 127-run innings off 134 balls also got him the player of the match (POTM) award. During the post-match ceremony, she was in tears and expressed gratitude to her coach and parents for the support. "Firstly, I want to thank Jesus, because I couldn't do this on my own. I know he carried me through today. I want to thank my mom, my dad, my coach, and every single person who just believed in me throughout this time. It was really hard these last four months, but it just feels like a dream and it's not sunk in yet," said Jemimah.
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India to take on mighty South Africa in the final
India will take on South Africa in the final to be played in Navi Mumbai on Sunday, November 2. In the first semi-final played against England in Guwahati, South Africa played a fierce brand of cricket and bagged a convincing 125-run win. Laura Woolvardt produced 169-run innings off 143 and played an instrumental role in the victory.
Both India and South Africa have never won the trophy and both teams will look to grab this opportunity. Jemimah will be expected to continue her form in the final to help India clinch the trophy and conclude the tournament as champions.
