Thrilling Finish: England Edges Past India; NZ Showdown Looms as Decisive Knockout

In a Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 match at the Holkar Stadium on Sunday, India seemed poised to secure victory for the majority of the 48-over chase. Chasing a target of 289, Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur built a strong 125-run partnership, with Deepti Sharma joining Mandhana to maintain what appeared to be an easy path to victory.

However, things took an unexpected turn.

Both Smriti and Deepti attempted risky aerial shots trying to keep up the momentum, but their efforts proved unsuccessful. India’s previous match saviors versus Sri Lanka, Amanjot Kar and Sneh Rana, couldn’t repeat their performances. Within 12 balls, the Indian team and the Indore crowd found themselves in a shocked silence.

Despite the challenges, Nat Sciver-Brunt and her team never lost hope. Their persistence paid off as England secured a narrow four-run victory, earning a spot in the semifinals alongside Australia and South Africa.

Although the match-ups didn’t favor India and the pitch didn’t offer significant turn, England’s lineup demonstrated resilience, securing a hard-fought win.

Heather Knight’s brilliant century laid the foundation for England’s success. Although she isn’t the captain anymore, Knight’s leadership shone through as she partnered with her successor, Sciver-Brunt, in a crucial 113-run stand that anchored England’s innings.

India’s fielding was commendable, preventing excess runs and making remarkable catches. Yet, Knight remained composed, celebrating her third ODI century with relief. Her dismissal was marked by loud cheers and a standing ovation from the crowd.

Similar to India’s innings, England’s lower middle order faltered, leaving them about 30 runs short. However, fortune favored the tenacious English side, allowing them to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.

Published on Oct 19, 2025.