India's captain Harmanpreet Kaur & Australia's captain Alyssa Healy. Pic Credits: AFP

ICC Women’s ODI WC 2025: India Aim for Final Berth, Australia Sweat On Alyssa Healy’s Fitness

The ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 is down to its final four, and all eyes are now on the blockbuster second semi-final between Australia Women (AUS-W) and India Women (IND-W). The two heavyweights will lock horns on Thursday, October 30, at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai, with a spot in the grand finale at stake. In case rain affects play, the ICC has scheduled a Reserve Day for Friday.

Both teams enter this contest with different journeys through the group stage. Australia have been their usual dominant selves, topping the points table and showing why they’re six-time world champions. India, meanwhile, had a tougher route, qualifying as the fourth and final team for the knockouts. Yet, Harmanpreet Kaur’s side has shown tremendous spirit under pressure, making this clash one that could go either way.

IND-W vs AUS-W: Match Details

  • Match: Australia Women vs India Women, 2nd Semi-Final, ICC Women’s World Cup 2025

  • Date & Time: Thursday, October 30, 3:00 PM IST

  • Venue: Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai

  • Broadcast: Star Sports Network

  • Live Streaming: Hotstar (App & Website)

IND-W vs AUS-W: Pitch and Weather Report

The DY Patil surface has earned a reputation for producing balanced contests between bat and ball. It’s known for true bounce and good carry, making stroke play rewarding once batters get set. However, spinners may find some purchase as the match progresses, especially under dry conditions.

This World Cup marks the ODI debut of the venue. Of the three matches played here so far, two were won by teams batting first, while one was washed out due to rain. Speaking of weather, there is a chance of showers on the match day, which could impact play. With rain looming, captains might prefer bowling first to stay ahead of any DLS adjustments and make better use of the conditions under cloud cover.

 

IND-W vs AUS-W: Head-to-Head Record (WODIs)

Matches AUS Won IND Won No Result
60 49 11 0

IND-W vs AUS-W: Predicted Playing XIs

Australia Women: Alyssa Healy (C & WK), Phoebe Litchfield, Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, Annabel Sutherland, Ashleigh Gardner, Tahlia McGrath, Georgia Wareham, Alana King, Kim Garth, Megan Schutt

India Women: Shafali Verma, Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Harleen Deol, Richa Ghosh (WK), Deepti Sharma, Amanjot Kaur, Sneh Rana, Renuka Singh Thakur, NS Shree Charani

IND-W vs AUS-W: Players to Watch

Smriti Mandhana (India): The in-form vice-captain has been the standout batter of the tournament with 365 runs in seven innings, including a match-winning century against New Zealand. Her ability to play both pace and spin with elegance and control makes her India’s key weapon. Playing on home soil in Navi Mumbai, Mandhana’s start at the top could set the tone for India’s innings.

Alyssa Healy (Australia): If fit, Healy’s return could be a game-changer. Her aggressive intent in the powerplay often puts opponents under early pressure. Beyond her batting, her experience behind the stumps and tactical awareness as captain could prove decisive in crunch situations.

Alana King (Australia): The leg-spinner has been exceptional this World Cup, highlighted by her record seven-wicket haul against South Africa in Indore — the best-ever figures in Women’s World Cup history. King’s variations and control make her a genuine wicket-taking threat in the middle overs, and her spell against India could decide the course of the match.

A clash between Australia’s dominance and India’s determination promises a thrilling contest for cricket fans. While Australia will aim to extend their World Cup legacy, India will look to harness home advantage and the firepower of their top order to script a memorable victory. Expect a fiercely fought encounter as two of the best teams in women’s cricket battle for a ticket to the final in Navi Mumbai.

Also Read: ICC ODI Women’s WC 2025 : Anjum Chopra Believes Smriti Mandhana To Come Good Against Australia

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