India’s record chase in the Women’s ODI World Cup semifinal versus Australia stunned the nation’s sports community, which was led by the renowned Sachin Tendulkar, calling it a fantastic triumph that will go down in history.
On Thursday night, Jemimah Rodrigues played the innings of her career, staying unbeaten at 127 as India defeated the Australian powerhouse to advance to their third Women’s ODI World Cup final.
Alongside a strong 167-run partnership for the third wicket with captain Harmanpreet Kaur (89 off 88 balls, 10x4s, 2x6s), Jemimah scored her third century and first in a World Cup.
India’s victory ended Australia’s 15-match winning streak in the competition over two editions.
India scored 341/5 in 48.3 overs in response to Australia’s 338 all out, with Jemimah anchoring the spirited response with her undefeated performance as they chased a massive 339.
“Fabulous victory! Well done @JemiRodrigues and @ImHarmanpreet for leading from the front. Shree Charani and @Deepti_Sharma06, you kept the game alive with the ball.
“Keep the tricolour flying high,” Tendulkar posted on X.
Former India coach and legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble too appreciated Rodrigues’ knock.
“A terrific win for India against Australia @JemiRodrigues was simply outstanding – 127* filled with elegance, patience and power. A knock that defines maturity and confidence,” he posted on X.
Former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh also commended the women’s team’s tenacity and conviction, particularly Rodrigues and Harmanpreet’s heroic blows.
“There are wins that go beyond numbers on a scoreboard. This was one of them. Under pressure, with the world watching @ImHarmanpreet played with the calm and conviction of a true leader while @JemiRodrigues brought pure focus and intent to play an innings of a lifetime!,” Yuvraj wrote on X.
“This partnership came from belief in their own game, in each other, and in what this team stands for. A historic semi final to win and on to the finals now!”
On Sunday, India will play South Africa in the championship match at Navi Mumbai.
Irfan Pathan, a former left-arm pacer for India who is now a broadcaster, too commended the women’s team’s poise.
“Such a pleasure watching this chase by @BCCIWomen with calmness & composure. Just too good from Jemimah Rodrigues & Harmanpreet Kaur. That cameo from Richa ghosh was crucial,” he posted.
Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya too reacted, saying, “This is India’s feminine power….”
