Jemimah Rodrigues' Historic Century: India's Incredible World Cup Comeback
A Redemption Story for the Ages
In what will be remembered as one of cricket’s greatest comebacks, Jemimah Rodrigues played a match-winning knock of 127* to guide India to a historic five-wicket victory over defending champions Australia in the Women’s World Cup 2025 semi-final. The chase of 339 became the highest successful run chase in Women’s ODI history, leaving cricket fans across the nation celebrating.
For those following the action through their Reddy Anna ID and other cricket platforms, this was more than just a victory—it was a moment of pure redemption.
The Match That Stopped a Nation
At Navi Mumbai’s DY Patil Stadium, 35,000 fans witnessed cricketing history unfold. Australia had posted a formidable 338, built on Phoebe Litchfield’s explosive 119 and Ellyse Perry’s steady 77. The target seemed insurmountable, but India had other plans.
When Rodrigues walked in at number three after Smriti Mandhana’s early dismissal, few could have predicted the magic that would follow. Batting for nearly 100 overs in brutal humidity exceeding 75%, she crafted an innings that combined technical excellence with mental fortitude.
Moments of Silence, Eruptions of Joy
Two crucial moments defined the chase. At 82, Rodrigues top-edged a sweep shot that spiraled toward midwicket. The stadium fell silent as fielders converged—only for Alyssa Healy to drop the chance. Minutes later, another hush descended when Australia reviewed an LBW decision, but the ball was sailing over the stumps. The crowd erupted both times.
Cricket enthusiasts tracking every ball through their Reddy Anna ID accounts witnessed these heart-stopping moments unfold in real-time, experiencing the emotional rollercoaster alongside those at the stadium.
A Partnership That Changed Everything
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur joined Rodrigues in a crucial partnership, contributing a brilliant 89 off 88 balls. The duo showed remarkable composure, rotating strike and finding boundaries when needed. With 150 runs required from 20 overs, they accelerated perfectly, bringing the equation within reach.
When Harmanpreet departed cramped and exhausted, Rodrigues took complete control. She later revealed that her captain’s dismissal actually refocused her: “It added more responsibility. I told myself, ‘She is out, I will score for her.'”
From Anxiety to Glory
This innings carried extra significance given Rodrigues’ recent struggles. Dropped from the 2022 World Cup squad and facing anxiety after poor performances early in this tournament, she had been left out against England. The omission left her feeling numb, questioning her abilities.
Her return against New Zealand with a quickfire 76 hinted at redemption, but this semi-final knock sealed it. Promoted just five minutes before walking out to bat, she absorbed pressure magnificently, playing audacious scoops, elegant cuts, and powerful sweeps—classic Rodrigues cricket at its finest.
The Winning Moment
As Rodrigues reached her century off 117 balls, there was no extravagant celebration—just a quiet fist bump with Richa Ghosh. The job wasn’t finished. She kept batting sensibly as Ghosh provided fireworks with 26 before departing.
With single digits remaining, Rodrigues found boundaries off Sophie Molineux and Annabel Sutherland. Amanjot Kaur sealed victory with two boundaries in the 49th over, and Rodrigues collapsed to her knees, tears flowing freely.
Fans celebrating through their Reddy Anna ID platforms joined millions worldwide in saluting a performance that transcended sport—a testament to perseverance, mental strength, and unwavering self-belief.
Looking Ahead to the Final
India now faces South Africa in the final on November 2nd, carrying momentum from this historic victory. Rodrigues’ words after the match perfectly captured her mindset: “When I reached my hundred, I didn’t celebrate. I thought about tomorrow morning—what would make me happier? Not the hundred, but India winning. I want to wake up knowing we’re playing the finals.”
This comeback ranks alongside sport’s greatest redemption stories—comparable to athletic legends who’ve risen from crushing defeats to achieve glory. For Indian cricket and fans following every moment on their Reddy Anna ID, this semi-final will be remembered as the night when silence turned to roars, and one woman’s determination carried a nation’s hopes.
India chased down 339 with nine balls remaining, winning by 5 wickets. Jemimah Rodrigues remained unbeaten on 127 off 134 balls in the highest successful chase in Women’s ODI history.
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