Bollywood star Kareena Kapoor Khan took a moment from her schedule to be at the DY Patil Stadium ahead of India’s pivotal semifinal clash against Australia in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. Her visit brought an atmosphere of encouragement and positivity as she expressed admiration for the team’s incredible journey.
Kareena mingled warmly with the players, praising their grit and recent successes. The scenes of laughter and encouragement shared between the actress and the team quickly captivated social media, with fans applauding her for standing behind women’s sports at such a crucial time. Fans called her presence a perfect morale lift for the Women in Blue.
Reflecting on the meeting, Kareena said, “These women are breaking barriers and inspiring millions across the country. It’s an absolute honour to meet them and wish them all the luck for the semi-finals.” She also expressed how deeply moved she was by their spirit and dedication, adding, “Their passion and hard work remind us all that with determination, there’s nothing impossible.”
As the national ambassador for UNICEF, Kareena was seen wearing a T-shirt featuring the organization’s name. This support intersected with the UNICEF–ICC partnership for the World Cup, which champions child rights, gender equality, and inclusion through the game of cricket. Earlier in the tournament, on October 25, UNICEF and ICC hosted an event that brought kids closer to players, celebrating the spirit of equality and empowerment through sport.
Under the leadership of captain Harmanpreet Kaur, the Indian squad has delivered a stellar performance, earning their spot in the semifinals. The clash with Australia lived upto to being fiercely competitive, with both teams showcasing the best of women’s cricket on the world stage—making it a match filled with hope, passion, and immense possibilities.
Under the floodlights of the Dr DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, anticipation reached fever pitch as six-time champions Australia Women faced a determined India Women in a high-stakes World Cup semi-final. Batting first, Australia flexed their muscle with Phoebe Litchfield’s brilliant 119 off 93 and Ellyse Perry’s composed 77 off 88, posting a formidable 338. But India’s bowlers, led by young N. Sree Charani (2/49), staged a spirited late fightback to keep the chase alive.
What followed was pure theatre. Jemimah Rodrigues (127* off 134) and Harmanpreet Kaur (89 off 88) scripted one of India’s greatest run chases, guiding the hosts to 341/5 in 48.3 overs and snapping Australia’s 15-match World Cup unbeaten streak. The deafening roar that followed marked not just victory but vindication — and the dawn of a new era. For the first time in 25 years, women’s cricket will see a new World Cup champion as India and South Africa prepare for a historic final.
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