The 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 has reached a thrilling crescendo with the two finalists now confirmed: India Women and South Africa Women. In what promises to be a landmark showdown, both teams overcame formidable opposition in the semi-finals, each in dominant fashion and each staking a claim for a historic title. These two sides now stand opposed in the final, and a new champion is guaranteed in the 50-over women’s game.
In the first semi-final at Guwahati, South Africa delivered a statement performance against four-time winners England Women. Captain Laura Wolvaardt exploded for a magnificent 169, her maiden World Cup century, while veteran all-rounder Marizanne Kapp ripped through England’s middle order with a five-for that also made her the all-time leading wicket-taker in women’s ODI World Cups. Together they handed England a 125-run defeat and secured South Africa’s first ever appearance in a 50-over World Cup final.
The second semi-final saw India upend defending champions Australia Women in a match for the ages. Australia piled up 338 all out, powered by Phoebe Litchfield’s century and half-centuries from Ellyse Perry and Ashleigh Gardner. In response, India’s young star Jemimah Rodrigues produced a stunning unbeaten 127 to guide the chase, anchoring a record-breaking successful run-chase and sealing a dramatic five-wicket win with nine balls to spare.
That sets the stage for a final between South Africa and India that no one saw coming at the start of the tournament. India, having rediscovered their batting depth and spin attack, look capable of adding a long-awaited title to their record. South Africa, meanwhile, carry the momentum of breakthrough semi-final glory and a balanced squad primed for the big occasion. It’s a matchup defined by narrative, confidence and the promise of cricket at its very best. The cricket-world now waits for the final showdown — a clash that might well redefine the hierarchy of women’s cricket.
Tragedy in Melbourne: Teenage Cricketer’s Death Shocks the Nation
Australian cricket has been left heartbroken following the tragic death of Melbourne teenager Ben Austin, who passed away after a training accident earlier this week. The young cricketer was reportedly struck during throwdowns on Tuesday and succumbed to his injuries on Thursday morning. Tributes have poured in from across the country, with clubs, teammates, and professional players expressing deep sorrow over the loss of a promising life cut short. Local cricket communities have described Ben as passionate, disciplined, and full of potential. The incident has sparked renewed conversations around safety measures in youth cricket training sessions. As the nation mourns, Ben Austin’s name will be remembered as a symbol of dedication and love for the game he adored.
India’s Historic Chase Stuns Australia, Books Spot in Women’s World Cup Final
In one of the most breathtaking matches in women’s cricket history, India stunned defending champions Australia to storm into the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 final. Powered by a magnificent unbeaten century from Jemimah Rodrigues, India chased down a mammoth 339 — the highest-ever successful run chase in women’s ODI cricket. Australia, led by Phoebe Litchfield’s fluent ton, had looked in complete control after posting a commanding total, but India’s fearless approach turned the tide. Jemimah anchored the innings brilliantly, supported by captain Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana in vital partnerships that kept the scoreboard ticking. The victory not only ended Australia’s reign but also showcased India’s evolution into a world-beating side brimming with confidence and composure. As they head into the final, India carry the momentum of a record-breaking triumph that has electrified fans across the globe.
