UPDATE: Australia has just won the toss and will bat first against India in the crucial semifinal of the Women’s Cricket World Cup on Thursday, 2025, at DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai. This match is critical as Australia aims for a record-extending eighth final, while India seeks to upset the defending champions.
Captain Alyssa Healy returns from a calf injury, which had sidelined her for the last two matches. Her presence is pivotal for Australia, who are on a remarkable 16-match unbeaten streak in World Cup history, dating back to 2022. Healy’s return comes after impressive back-to-back centuries against India and Bangladesh earlier in the tournament.
In a significant blow for India, Pratika Rawal has been ruled out due to an ankle injury sustained during their final league match against Bangladesh. In her place, Shafali Verma joins the lineup, despite not being part of the original squad. Verma, who has played 29 ODIs, brings a wealth of experience with 774 runs at an average of 23 and a strike rate of 83.20.
India has made two other changes to the squad: wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh returns after resting, and medium-pacer Kranti Goud replaces Harleen Deol. Australia has also adjusted its lineup, with Sophie Molineux stepping in for wrist spinner Georgia Wareham.
The teams met in the league stage, where Australia emerged victorious by three wickets. Historically, Australia holds an 11-3 record against India in World Cup matches, adding pressure on the co-hosts to perform.
The pitch at DY Patil Stadium is expected to favor batters, especially as the game progresses, but there is a chance of rain, with a reserve day in place should weather conditions interfere.
As the match unfolds, all eyes will be on the dynamic performance of both teams, making this an unmissable showdown in the Women’s Cricket World Cup. Fans and cricket enthusiasts alike are eager to see if India can overcome their past record against Australia and seize a place in the final.
Stay tuned for live updates as the match progresses!
