IND-W vs NZ-W Match 24 Highlights for ICC WWC 2025

IND-W vs NZ-W Match 24 Highlights for ICC WWC 2025

India storms into the semi-finals of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 after registering an impressive 53-run win (via DLS method) over New Zealand Women in Match 24 at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai. The high-stakes clash on Thursday turned out to be a memorable encounter for Indian fans as Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal led from the front with sensational centuries. So let’s take a look at the highlights of IND-W vs NZ-W Match 24 for ICC WWC 2025.

India seals semi-final spot with dominant batting display

In a rain-affected encounter, New Zealand skipper Sophie Devine won the toss and elected to bowl first. The decision backfired spectacularly as India Women scored 340/3 in 49 overs.
Openers Smriti Mandhana (109 off 95) and Pratika Rawal (122 off 134) made it a stand of 212 runs off 201 balls, providing the perfect platform for a huge total.

After their departure, Jemimah Rodrigues provided the finishing touches with rapid fire 76 off 55 balls*, which helped India comfortably cross the 300-run mark despite the shortened innings.

Revised objective and New Zealand’s struggle in the chase

The rain returned between innings, forcing New Zealand to a revised target of 325 in 44 overs. The White Ferns started positively, with Georgia Plimmer and Amelia Kerr finding rhythm early, but Renuka Singh’s disciplined spell derailed their momentum.

Renuka removed Plimmer and Devine in quick succession to finish with impressive figures of 2/25 in 6 overs. Despite late resistance from Brooke Halliday (57) and Isabella Gaze (51), New Zealand fell short and finished at 271/8 in 44 overs.

Top Performers – Mandhana and Rawal Shine Bright

Smriti Mandhana’s stylish century

Smriti Mandhana, who had been in close contact throughout the tournament, eventually reached the three-figure mark. Her 109 off 95 balls included 10 fours and four sixes, marking her 14th WODI century and first in the 2025 World Cup. The Indian vice-captain’s composure and timing set the foundation for the Indian innings from the outset.

Pratika Rawal’s all-round brilliance

Youngster Pratika Rawal complemented Mandhana perfectly and scored a classy 122 off 134 balls. Her ability to rotate and accelerate the offense when necessary kept the scoreboard ticking. She also scored a crucial wicket, demonstrating her all-round value to the team.

Bowling highlights – Renuka Singh performs under pressure

Right-arm seamer Renuka Singh produced a fiery spell under pressure. Her dismissal of New Zealand skipper Sophie Devine with a stunning delivery in the 12th over became one of the highlights of the match.

Renuka’s early breakthroughs set the tone for the Indian defence, and her consistent accuracy ensured the Kiwi chase never fully recovered.

Player of the Match – Smriti Mandhana

Smriti Mandhana was named Player of the Match for her match-winning knock of 109 runs and brilliant fielding effort, taking three catches in the second innings. Her innings not only led India to a strong total but also underlined her status as one of the best batsmen in women’s cricket today.

Memorable moments – Record partnership and historic victory

The 212-run opening partnership between Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal will go down as one of the best in the history of the Women’s World Cup in India. It came in a must-win match that saw India reach their sixth Women’s World Cup semi-final win.

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