Jemimah Rodrigues produced one of the most memorable knocks in women’s ODI history, anchoring India to a thrilling five wicket victory and securing a place in the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup final. Her unbeaten 127 off 134 balls powered India to chase down a daunting 339 run target against Australia — the highest successful run chase in India Women’s ODI history.
Coming in with the scoreboard reading 13 for 1 after Shafali Verma fell early, the 25 years old right-hand batter from Mumbai showed remarkable composure and maturity. At a time when the Australian bowlers looked threatening with the new ball, Jemimah’s technique and calm head steadied India’s innings. She began cautiously, rotating strike with Smriti Mandhana and ensuring the side didn’t slip under pressure. By the time she reached her fifty from 57 deliveries, she had already built the platform for what would become a defining innings.
Once set, Jemimah shifted gears seamlessly. Her timing returned in full rhythm as she punished loose deliveries, cover drives, late cuts, and well-placed flicks flowing in equal measure. When Harmanpreet Kaur joined her, the two stitched together a magnificent 167-run partnership for the third wicket. Harmanpreet’s aggressive approach (89 off 88) allowed Jemimah to settle into her rhythm, playing the anchor role with elegance and precision.
Her hundred came off just 115 balls. The entire Indian dressing room rose in applause, knowing they were witnessing something special. For Jemimah, it was not just a century, it was vindication of her consistency and ability to rise to big match occasions.
Australia, despite spreading the field and rotating seven bowlers, had no answer to the Jemimah show. She manipulated the gaps expertly, never allowing the required run rate to climb dangerously. Her unbeaten 127 featured 14 boundaries, none of them risk-laden, each a study in timing and placement. The chase was sealed in 48.3 overs, with Amanjot Kaur striking the winning runs as Jemimah raised her bat in silent triumph.
This chase not only showcased India’s batting depth but exemplified the poise of a unit building confidence ahead of the final. The collective intent from Harmanpreet’s authority to Richa Ghosh’s fireworks complemented Jemimah’s mastery. It was a chase completed with, breaking multiple ODI records and solidifying India’s credentials as one of the most balanced sides in women’s cricket.
Jemimah’s century is the innings that changed the tone of Indian batting order. For Jemimah, who has long been hailed as a future leader, this knock could well be career-defining, a blend of temperament, timing, and trust in herself. As India now prepares for the grand final, her calm brilliance under pressure will remain the cornerstone of belief in this dream campaign.
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