Jemimah Rodrigues delivered a stunning, match-winning century to power India into the Women’s Cricket World Cup final, breaking down in tears as she embraced her parents after the historic victory.
Key Takeaways
- Jemimah Rodrigues scored an unbeaten 127 to lead India to a record chase of 339 runs
- India defeated Australia, ending their 16-match unbeaten World Cup streak
- This marks only India’s third appearance in a Women’s World Cup final
The 25-year-old’s heroic performance at Navi Mumbai’s DY Patil Stadium on Thursday created one of the most emotional moments in recent cricket history. Rodrigues sank into her parents’ arms, overwhelmed with joy after her breathtaking knock secured India’s place in the championship match.
Historic Chase Breaks Records
Rodrigues’ unbeaten 127 powered India to successfully chase down 339 runs – the highest successful run chase in women’s ODI history. After an early wobble in the innings, Rodrigues and skipper Harmanpreet Kaur steadied the ship with a crucial 167-run partnership that turned the tide completely.
Her 134-ball masterclass featured 14 boundaries and demonstrated sheer resolve under pressure. The victory ended Australia’s impressive 16-match unbeaten streak in World Cups and propelled India into the final for only the third time in their history after 2005 and 2017.
‘Feels Like a Dream’
In an emotional post-match interview, Rodrigues shared: “Firstly I want to thank Jesus, because I couldn’t do this on my own. I know he carried me through today. I want to thank my mum, my dad, my coach and every single person who believed in me. It was really hard these last four months, but it just feels like a dream and it hasn’t sunk in yet.”
Remarkable Tournament Turnaround
Rodrigues’ journey to this heroic performance wasn’t straightforward. She began her World Cup campaign struggling, falling for ducks against Sri Lanka and South Africa. The selectors even dropped her for the game against England in Indore as India opted for a sixth bowling option.
However, her comeback against New Zealand, where she batted at No. 3, marked a turning point in her tournament. Though she didn’t get to bat against Bangladesh in Navi Mumbai, she saved her best for the crucial semi-final against Australia, earning the Player of the Match award.
Throughout 2025, Rodrigues has been in exceptional form, amassing 747 runs in 19 matches at an average of 53.35 and a strike rate of 107.32, including three centuries. Her semi-final heroics have now cemented her place as one of India’s most clutch performers in pressure situations.
