Follow UsSmriti Mandhana’s sublime century powered India to a commanding win over New Zealand, sealing their place in the semi-finals of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025. In a rain-affected match, India posted 340/3 in 49 overs, with Mandhana scoring her fifth hundred of the year and young opener Pratika Rawal registering her maiden World Cup century. The duo’s 212-run opening stand, which was India’s highest of the tournament, set the tone for a dominant performance and a much-needed turnaround in form.
Speaking after the victory, Mandhana admitted the team felt a huge sense of relief after three challenging matches where they lost close encounters. “For sure, it’s a big relief in terms of qualifying. The last three games were really tough. We thought we played some good cricket but just couldn’t win, so this is really relieving,” she said.
Mandhana was all praise for her opening partner, insisting that Rawal was the true star of the game. “I think Pratika completely deserved the Player of the Match award. The way she batted and paced her innings was brilliant. She’s been working really hard, and it was amazing to see her get those runs when the team needed it most,” Mandhana said.
“We’re similar people — we both just want to do the job for the team. We don’t talk a lot in the middle. She’s a good anchor and really allows me to play my natural game. When she gets going, I can chip in with the anchor role. That really works for us.”
Reflecting on her own form, Mandhana said she focuses on staying positive and keeping things simple. “I back myself to play a longer innings once I get to 20. In World Cups, you have to leave a lot of things behind. If you are in form, you need to keep going and not complicate things. That’s what I kept telling myself. I’m feeling good, and that’s what matters,” she said.
With a place in the last four secured, India will now look to carry their momentum into the semi-finals as they continue their pursuit of a maiden Women’s World Cup title.