Australia has won seven of the 12 Women’s ODI World Cup editions so far. The last time it lost a World Cup game was eight years ago — to India — when Harmanpreet Kaur produced her unforgettable blitz in Derby in July 2017. No wonder then that the 2025 edition has often been dubbed as a battle among the rest for the runners-up spot.

India, buoyed by its strong lead-up to the tournament and the advantage of home conditions, entered this World Cup as the top challenger to Australia’s dominance. However, an inconsistent league phase has left the host facing the defending champion in Thursday’s semifinal instead of a dream final.

India has drafted in Shafali Verma as an injury replacement for the in-form Pratika Rawal, who hurt her right leg during the last league game against Bangladesh. Shafali is expected to open alongside Smriti Mandhana, reigniting one of India’s most explosive partnerships.

ALSO READ: For homebound Shafali, will Australia showdown be just another day at the box-office?

While fans may hope for another Harmanpreet special reminiscent of 2017, much will depend on Smriti — the vice-captain — to anchor the innings against a bowling attack she has often dominated in the past.

Both sides endured brief injury concerns, but it is understood that Richa Ghosh and Australia skipper Alyssa Healy have recovered and are available for selection. Their returns will add balance and experience to both line-ups ahead of what promises to be a high-stakes clash.

With heavy rain forecast across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region over the next 48 hours, there remains a cloud of uncertainty over the weather. The cricket community will hope for clear skies and a packed DY Patil Stadium on Thursday — the perfect stage for India to challenge the might of the team to beat.

Published on Oct 29, 2025