India’s journey in both men’s and women’s ODI World Cups has been marked by unforgettable moments, record-breaking partnerships and historic chases that stirred pride across the nation. Over the years, Indian batters have delivered under pressure, showcasing resilience, precision, and brilliance. Let’s dive into the top three successful run-chases for India in ODI World Cup history, celebrating both men’s and women’s achievements that exemplify determination and dominance.
1. India Women’s 341-5 vs Australia – 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup Semi-Final
The semi-final against Australia in the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup is likely to be remembered as one of the most thrilling matches in cricket history. Chasing a daunting target of 339 runs, India’s women put on a stunning batting display that took down the reigning champions. Jemimah Rodrigues was the star of the innings, crafting a brilliant unbeaten 127 off 134 balls while batting at No. 3, a position she doesn’t usually occupy. Her innings was a mix of composure, timing, and sheer determination that set the stage for the chase.
Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur also made a significant impact with a fluid 89 off 88 balls, embodying the spirit of a big-match performer. Their partnership steadied the innings after an early hiccup and kept the scoreboard moving at a healthy rate. As the match reached a nail-biting climax, Deepti Sharma (24 off 17) and Richa Ghosh (26 off 16) played crucial roles, hitting boundaries at key moments to maintain India’s lead. Amanjot Kaur’s late flourish of 15 runs off just 8 balls sealed the chase, with India finishing at 341-5 and etching their name in history as the highest successful run-chase in Women’s ODI World Cup history. This victory was not just about cricket; it highlighted the growing strength and self-belief of India’s women cricketers on the international stage.
2. India Men’s 288-4 vs Zimbabwe – 2015 Men’s ODI World Cup
During the 2015 Men’s ODI World Cup, India faced Zimbabwe in what turned out to be a surprisingly tense contest. Chasing a target of 288, India’s top order struggled, putting immense pressure on the middle order. However, Suresh Raina and MS Dhoni stepped up, forming a match-winning partnership that showcased their calmness under pressure.
Raina’s aggressive hundred, 110* off 104 balls, was filled with powerful strokes and smart risks, keeping India in the game, while Dhoni’s composed 85* runs off 76 balls did what he does best: absorb pressure and guide his team home. Their partnership led India to a total of 288-4, clinching victory with, more than an over to spare and extending their unbeaten streak in the tournament. This chase was more than just a numerical achievement; it exemplified belief, temperament, and the art of finishing, characteristic of India’s success under MS Dhoni.
3. India Men’s 277-4 vs Sri Lanka – 2011 Men’s ODI World Cup Final
No recounting of India’s greatest ODI World Cup chases would be complete without mentioning the 2011 World Cup Final at Wankhede Stadium, a night that reshaped Indian cricket history. Chasing 275 runs against Sri Lanka, India found themselves in early trouble when Virender Sehwag and Sachin Tendulkar fell cheaply. However, Gautam Gambhir’s steadying presence and Dhoni’s inspirational captaincy turned the tide.
Gambhir’s gritty 97 anchored the innings, while Dhoni’s unbeaten 91*, culminating in that iconic six over long-on, secured India’s second ODI World Cup title after 28 years. This chase embodied the essence of Indian cricket: composure, teamwork, and taking the moment as it comes. As fireworks illuminated the Mumbai sky, India’s successful pursuit of 275 became a crowning moment in sporting history.
From the historic chase of 339 runs in the Women’s World Cup to the unforgettable Dhoni-led triumph of 2011, India’s most memorable moments under pressure have come during chases. These innings not only highlight India’s tactical brilliance but also showcase the fearless spirit of modern Indian cricket, a team that competes with heart and conquers every target ahead of them.
