England, a four-time champion, secured their spot in the Women’s World Cup semifinals with a thrilling four-run victory over hosts India in Indore on Sunday.
England set a formidable target of 288-8, powered by Heather Knight’s impressive century, and maintained composure in the field to defend it, despite their bowling, typically their strength, being slightly below par.
India seemed on track for a win, needing only 62 runs from the last 10 overs with seven wickets remaining. However, Smriti Mandhana’s dismissal shifted the momentum as pressure mounted and dot balls accumulated. Shortly after, Richa Ghosh and Deepti Sharma fell in quick succession, leaving the tail exposed.
Careless batting proved costly for India. Mandhana’s wicket opened the floodgates when she advanced down the pitch to left-arm spinner Linsey Smith but failed to clear long-off. Deepti Sharma, after reaching her half-century, was dismissed attempting a slog sweep against Sophie Ecclestone, finding deep mid-wicket perfectly. From there, the outcome was evident.
“We probably needed 300, but we did well to claw back, and I’m very pleased. I hadn’t contributed much in the last few games, so it was gratifying to score a match-winning hundred,” said Knight, whose elegant 109 off 91 balls, including 15 fours and a six, anchored England’s innings.
England’s openers provided a fast start with 73 runs for the first wicket before Knight partnered with captain Nat Sciver-Brunt for a 113-run partnership that kept the scoreboard ticking.
At one point, England seemed poised to surpass 300, but Knight’s run-out while attempting a second run caused a slowdown as India tightened their grip, allowing only 74 runs in the final 10 overs. Deepti Sharma was the standout bowler, taking four wickets.
This defeat marked India’s third consecutive loss, turning their next game against New Zealand into a virtual knockout. With both teams tied at four points, it’s a must-win scenario to remain in contention for the last semi-final spot, with Australia, England, and South Africa already through.
Meanwhile, England has been efficient, advancing to the semis with two games remaining. They are second on the table with nine points, equal with defending champions Australia, separated only by a slight Net Run Rate difference.
“I’m not sure how we lost this game. It was ours for the taking. We’ve worked very hard, and losing in the last five overs is heartbreaking. This is the third straight game we’ve lost after being so close,” lamented India captain Harmanpreet Kaur.
