Harmanpreet Kaur and her band of blue created history in Navi Mumbai on October 30, scripting a night to remember with a stunning semifinal win over the mighty Australians. Chasing a mammoth 338-run target, India pulled off one of the greatest chases in women’s cricket to clinch a five-wicket victory and book their place in the final of the ICC Women’s World Cup.
The win sent not just the players but an entire nation into jubilation. It has also made several former players and coaches confident that India can go all the way when they face South Africa in the final on Sunday, once again at Navi Mumbai.
Two days after the win against Australia, I’m still thrilled. I’ve seen a definite shift in how people talk about women’s cricket now, and that’s extremely heartening.
Chopra believes the semifinal victory has redefined public perception of the women’s game in India. “It wasn’t just a cricket win—it was a cultural moment,” she added.
‘Outstanding Semi-Final, Confident About The Final’ – Hemlata Kala
Former chief selector Hemlata Kala echoed the optimism, calling the semifinal performance “absolutely outstanding.”
Barring a few lapses in fielding, everything else clicked for India. Before the semis, we seemed one bowler short, but that issue was resolved beautifully. The batting has been exceptional. Had the fielding been sharper, Australia could have been restricted to even less—they looked set to reach 360, but the bowlers fought back superbly.
Chopra agreed, noting, “India did concede a few extra runs through overthrows, otherwise the target might have been lower. But all’s well that ends well.”
‘Both Teams Have Fought Hard To Reach Here’
Both India and South Africa have had tough journeys to the final, knocking out top sides Australia and England respectively.
The key now is to stay in the present—not think about the past or the future. The road to the final has tested both teams, and whoever stays composed will have the edge.
‘India Have More Match-Winners’
Kala was unequivocal in her belief that India will lift the trophy this time.
Our opposition in the final is different,” she said. “We have match-winners throughout the line-up. In the South African side, apart from Laura Wolvaardt and Marizanne Kapp, there aren’t many who can turn a game single-handedly.
Wolvaardt smashed 169 off 145 balls with 24 boundaries against England in the semifinal, while Kapp’s five for 20 made her the highest wicket-taker in Women’s World Cup history. But Kala insisted India’s all-round depth gives them the upper hand.
We beat Australia—arguably the best team in the world. Jemimah’s innings was magnificent, but Richa’s little cameo was equally vital. We have strength right through the batting order.
‘Play It Like Any Other Game’
Chopra’s advice for Team India heading into the final is simple: “Treat it as just another game of cricket. Play with confidence. I want to see a complete, all-round performance. South Africa are strong—stronger than England in my view—but India have what it takes.”
Kala agreed, adding, “There’s no need to worry. We have depth in batting, variety in bowling, and the belief. I truly feel we will win the World Cup.”
