It’s yellow versus blue once again — the serial winners against the perennial challengers. No matchup in women’s cricket sparks excitement quite like India versus Australia, and when it’s a World Cup semifinal, the stakes soar even higher.
On Thursday, the D.Y. Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai will host this high-voltage clash of power and unpredictability as both teams fight for a spot in the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup final.
Australia, true to form, stormed into the semifinals after a dominant seven-wicket win over South Africa. Yet, that very dominance gives India a glimmer of hope — perhaps Australia have already played their best game of the tournament.
Led by Harmanpreet Kaur, India bounced back with a crucial win over New Zealand to keep their dream alive. There are no points or qualification worries now — win and you’re through, lose and you’re out.
At the nets, Shafali Verma and Amanjot Kaur took turns opening, as India weigh their options on who partners Smriti Mandhana. Replacing Pratika Rawal, Shafali looked composed, playing more along the ground than over the top. “It’s not new for me,” she said ahead of the match. “I’ve played semifinals before — I just need to stay calm, back myself, and give 200%.”
Richa Ghosh could also return to the XI after going through wicketkeeping and batting drills earlier this week. Former England cricketer Tash Farrant believes her presence could be game-changing: “Her unpredictability in the middle order can flip a match in minutes. If she gets going, she’s key for India.”
Australia, however, remain clear favorites. Captain Alyssa Healy is expected to return from injury, while all-rounders Ashleigh Gardner and Annabel Sutherland have been in superb touch. Leg-spinner Alana King, fresh off a sensational 7/18 against South Africa, adds further firepower.
The weather is expected to stay clear, with a reserve day in place if needed. The match will be played on the same pitch used for the Sri Lanka–Bangladesh game — a surface that could produce higher scores this time around.
History meets hunger in Navi Mumbai — Australia chasing another title, India chasing a long-awaited dream.
