On 26th October 2025 in DY Patil Stadium, the last group stage match of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 was played, India and Bangladesh produced a memorable contest defined by exceptional fielding and unwavering spirit. The fixture, abandoned after rain with India 57/0, Bangladesh made 119/9 in 27 overs and India was given 126 as target (DLS Method).
India’s fielding coach Munish Bali praised the collective brilliance on display, summing it up he said, “5 catches and one smart run out—well done Radha (Yadav); two catches Harleen (Deol) well done, Jemi (Jemimah Rodrigues) good catch, (Sree) Charni one catch, Arundhati (Reddy) excellent catch.”
Throughout the campaign, India’s fielders have turned half-chances into wickets and stops, ensuring every run was hard-earned. Bali’s mention reflects the countless moments of anticipation and quick reflexes, chasing in the outfield that showcased the grit needed at this level.
Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, who received the best fielder medal in previous match presented the fielding medal, took a moment to express her gratitude in heartfelt words: “Yeah, I think first, before I give this medal, a big thanks to Uma (Chetry), Radha and Arundhati throughout the campaign, your contribution as coming in, getting our energy up, is amazing.”
“If Radha would not have come running in when I was on 70, that lemon water, I would not have got that century (against New Zealand). Those are very small contributions which go unnoticed, but the way you guys come out to the field, when we have to come out, we know the best fielders are coming in. It is a big achievement to come to the field for 5 overs and get a fielding medal; I think best catch; best celebration award goes to Arundhati Reddy.”
The match provided its most spectacular fielding highlight when Arundhati Reddy, on as a substitute, charged in from deep midwicket to dive full-stretch and catch a ballooned top edge from Sharmin Akhter off Sree Charani’s bowling. This was more than just a wicket—it was a statement of intent, breaking a set partnership and swinging momentum in India’s favor. Radha Yadav complemented her ground fielding with three wickets, supported by sharp catching from Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Charani.
Bangladesh’s batters appeared stifled, unable to find easy singles or disrupt the field, credit to India’s all-round alertness and anticipation. With the bat, India made a quick start before rain intervened, with Mandhana’s unbeaten 34 and Amanjot Kaur 15* ensuring a solid platform at 57/0 in 8.4 overs, comfortably ahead of required numbers.
As group stages close, India’s fielding, highlighted by medals and heartfelt speeches, sends a strong message to opponents: skill and heart in the field can tilt the balance even before a ball is bowled or a run is scored. The “catches” on the ground tell the story of a team that gives everything for every ball—a legacy that may prove as vital as any batting or bowling performance when the tournament reaches its crescendo. India will be facing Australia in the semifinals clash on 30 Oct in Dr. DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai.
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