In the ongoing ODI Women`s World Cup 2025, Team India has stormed into the final, where they will face South Africa.
In the semi-final of the marquee event against Australia, India’s star batter Jemimah Rodrigues produced one of the most remarkable innings in women’s cricket history.
Facing 134 balls, the right-hander scored an unbeaten 127 runs, studded with 14 boundaries. Her knock reflected determination, resilience, and grit that powered India to a place in the final.
What many might have missed was Jemimah’s mud-stained jersey — a sign of her fearless dives, tumbles, and unwavering spirit.
A similar sight was once seen on former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir during the 2011 ODI World Cup final against Sri Lanka.
Gambhir, too, had mud on his jersey — mud that symbolised India’s fight and glory as the “Men in Blue” scripted history by clinching the title at home. In that final, the left-handed opener played a crucial knock of 97 off 122 balls, including nine boundaries.
On Thursday, Jemimah delivered a similar match-winning effort. Despite early setbacks, the Mumbai-born batter stayed composed and built a vital partnership with skipper Harmanpreet Kaur.
On both occasions, the mud stood as a testament to the discipline and determination Gambhir and Rodrigues showed in their defining innings. Neither celebrated their milestones, knowing their task wasn’t complete until victory was secured.
This time, the “Women in Blue” triumphed by five wickets against Australia. Alongside Jemimah, captain Kaur contributed a brilliant 89 off 88 balls, hitting 10 fours and two sixes. Rodrigues’ knock has not only changed perceptions but also elevated the standards of women’s cricket in India.
India will now lock horns with South Africa in the title clash on November 2 at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai.
Like the men’s iconic triumph in 2011, can the “Women in Blue” lift the ODI World Cup trophy on home soil?
India`s squad for ODI Women`s World Cup 2025: Harmanpreet Kaur (Capt), Smriti Mandhana (VC), Shafali Verma, Harleen Deol, Deepti Sharma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Renuka Singh Thakur, Arundhati Reddy, Richa Ghosh (WK), Kranti Gaud, Amanjot Kaur, Radha Yadav, Sree Charani, Yastika Bhatia (WK) and Sneh Rana.