Women’s World Cup: Smriti, Pratika guide India into semis with win over NZ in rain-hit match (Ld)
India beat New Zealand by 53 runs in a rain‑affected match on Thursday, the win putting the Indians in the semi‑finals of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup. The game, played at the Nambucca Bay stadium in Navi Mumbai on 23 Oct, was shortened to 49 and 44 overs by the DLS method after two rain breaks.
Openers lay a strong foundation
India’s opening pair, Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal, blasted 212 runs together – the biggest first‑wicket stand for an Indian pair in ODIs. Mandhana finished on 109 from 95 balls, while Rawal added 122 from 134. They set the stage for a big score of 340/3 in 49 overs, with Jemimah Rodrigues contributing a quick 76 not out.
New Zealand’s comeback falls short
New Zealand were asked to chase the revised target of 325 in 44 overs. Brooke Halliday ignited the chase with 81 from 84 balls, and Isabella Gaze scored a solid 65* off 51. Amelia Kerr added 45, but the Indians’ bowlers – especially Renuka Singh and Kranti Gaud – took crucial wickets. The White Ferns finished 271/8, 53 runs behind.
Key wickets:
- Pratika Rawal caught by a quick drop.
- Sophie Devine, the NZ skipper, out for six to Renuka Singh.
- Kranti Gaud dismissed Suzie Bates early in the innings.
India’s path to the semis
With this victory, India now has six points in the group and is guaranteed a place in the last four, regardless of the results of their final two games. They are set to face one of the top four teams, joining Australia, England, and South Africa for the semi‑finals.
Highlights
- Mandhana’s 109 and Rawal’s 122 made India one of the few teams to post 300+ in this World Cup.
- The 212‑run stand is the second‑most by any pair in ODI history.
- New Zealand’s rain‑affected chase brings them close, but a 53‑run deficit means they must win their remaining matches to keep the semi‑final spot alive.
India’s victory showcases their resilience and strong batting depth, giving them confidence as the tournament moves into the knockout phase.
Source: ianslive
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