Snehasis Mukherjee in Navi Mumbai
Team India will face defending champions Australia in the semi-final of the ongoing ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, on October 30, at the DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai. Before that, they play their final group-stage match against Bangladesh at the same venue, on October 26.
India’s campaign has been a mixed one so far. They began with two strong wins over Sri Lanka and Pakistan, but then suffered three consecutive defeats against South Africa, Australia, and England. The win over New Zealand, however, helped them secure a place in the semi-finals and eased the pressure in the camp.
On paper, this Bangladesh clash holds little significance for the Women in Blue. But as a team, Harmanpreet Kaur and her players will aim to continue their winning momentum heading into the knockouts.
Considering India’s current form and the quality gap between the two teams, they are clear favourites to win. However, that also brings the danger of complacency, something they must guard against.
Bangladesh’s record of one win from six matches does not tell the full story of their fight and spirit. They have come close to pulling off big upsets several times. Against England, while defending 178, they reduced the opponents to 103/6 before Heather Knight and Charlie Dean rescued England. Similarly, against South Africa, Bangladesh had them at 78/5 while defending 232, but dropped chances and misfields cost them dearly as Marizanne Kapp and Nadine de Klerk guided the Proteas home.
For More Exciting Articles: Follow RevSportz
Their most heartbreaking loss came against Sri Lanka. Chasing 203, Bangladesh needed just nine runs off the final over with captain Nigar Sultana Joty unbeaten on 77. But they lost four wickets in that over and fell short by seven runs.
Bangladesh’s spinners have taken 29 wickets in six matches. Given India’s occasional struggles against spin, they could pose a challenge once again. Therefore, India must avoid taking this match lightly to prevent any unwanted slip-ups before facing Australia.
India might look to rotate their squad. Wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh sustained a finger injury during the New Zealand game. Though not serious, she may be rested, with reserve keeper Uma Chetry likely to get a chance. Seam-bowling all-rounder Amanjot Kaur could also replace Renuka Singh Thakur as part of workload management.
Still, India will be expected to win and win well. The ideal approach should be to dominate and stay ruthless. Australia did the same against Bangladesh, bowling them out for 198/9 and then chasing the target in just 24.5 overs without losing a wicket.
That is the kind of statement India should aim to make, a dominant performance to send a clear message before the semi-final. With confidence high and the squad peaking at the right time, the Women in Blue should show they are ready to challenge for their maiden ICC Women’s World Cup title.
Also Read: CWC 25: India eye momentum against Bangladesh before Australia semi-final