The ICC Women’s World Cup 2025/26 was a remarkable tournament that showcased extraordinary batting performances. This event highlighted the blend of composure and aggression, leading to record-breaking innings that shaped the fate of various teams. From Laura Wolvaardt’s elegance to Jemimah Rodrigues’ steadfastness, these innings not only amassed runs but also significantly influenced their teams’ journeys. Here’s a recap of some of the standout batting performances that defined the tournament.
1. Laura Wolvaardt – 169 (143) vs England, Guwahati
Laura Wolvaardt’s 169 off 143 balls against England in the Semi-final at Guwahati was the highest individual score of the tournament and a defining innings in South Africa’s campaign. Opening the innings, she struck 20 fours and 4 sixes at a strike rate of 118.18, mixing control with precise aggression. Against a quality English attack, Wolvaardt’s ability to shift gears after her century helped South Africa post 320. Her effort proved match-winning, as South Africa sealed a memorable victory by 125 runs to reach their maiden World Cup final.
2. Alyssa Healy – 142 (107) vs India, Visakhapatnam
Alyssa Healy dazzled in Visakhapatnam with a brilliant 142 off just 107 balls, blending fearless aggression with controlled precision. The Australian opener dismantled India’s bowling attack with 21 boundaries and 3 sixes, achieving a remarkable strike rate of 132.71. Her early innings set a dynamic tone, punishing anything short or wide while smartly rotating the strike against spinners. Healy’s ability to maintain an attacking tempo put immense pressure on India, aiding Australia in chasing down a daunting total of 331 by 3 wickets with 6 balls remaining.
3. Jemimah Rodrigues – 127* (134) vs Australia, DY Patil
Jemimah Rodrigues showcased one of the most mature innings of her career, scoring an unbeaten 127 off 134 balls against Australia at DY Patil. In a high-pressure chase, she demonstrated remarkable composure, absorbing early pressure before forging vital partnerships. With a strike rate of 94.77, she balanced caution with calculated aggression, finding gaps with impressive precision. Striking 14 boundaries, often with graceful drives and cuts, she remained unbeaten, guiding India to a memorable victory as India chased the target of 339 runs, scoring 341 runs, winning the match by 5 wickets and 9 balls remaining.
4. Pratika Rawal – 122 (134) vs New Zealand, DY Patil
Pratika Rawal, a rising star in Indian cricket, marked her presence on the global stage with a magnificent 122 off 134 balls against New Zealand at DY Patil. Coming in at a crucial time, Rawal showcased maturity beyond her years, stabilising the innings when it mattered most. Her innings included 13 fours and 2 sixes at a strike rate of 91.04, demonstrating her ability to build partnerships and accelerate when needed. Combining patience with explosive shots later in her innings, Rawal’s century not only anchored India but also marked her as one of the breakout performers of this World Cup, promising a bright future ahead.
5. Phoebe Litchfield – 119 (93) vs India, DY Patil
Phoebe Litchfield delivered an exhilarating 119 off just 93 balls against India in the Semi-Final, showcasing fearless stroke play and modern ODI brilliance. As Australia’s opener, she attacked from the start, striking 17 fours and 3 sixes at an impressive strike rate of 127.95. Her aggressive approach kept India under pressure throughout, as she maneuvered deftly against both pace and spin. Although her innings came in a losing effort, it underscored her emergence as one of the most exciting young batters in world cricket, able to take charge against any bowling attack.
The ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 will be remembered for these unforgettable batting displays. Each knock, whether characterized by patience or raw aggression, highlighted the evolution of women’s ODI cricket, where skill, intent, and temperament coexist harmoniously. From Wolvaardt’s classic dominance to Litchfield’s fearless innovation, these performances not only thrilled fans globally but also inspired a new generation of cricketers to dream big on the world stage.
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