‘Winning streak to continue’: BCCI secretary wishes India to win ICC Women’s World Cup final after Jemimah show

India will face South Africa in the ICC Women's ODI World Cup 2025 final on November 2, Sunday.

Team India’s run in the ICC Women’s World Cup wasn’t going smoothly until the excitement multiplied after their record-breaking semifinal win over Australia. Following the historic victory, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia praised the team’s fearless spirit and expressed hope that their “winning streak will continue” in Sunday’s final against the South Africa team.

BCCI secretary on semis win

While the likes of former BCCI secretary and now the ICC Chairman Jay Shah and newly appointed BCCI President Mithun Manhas were present in the stands, Saikia lauded the players for showcasing what he described as the ‘true sense of empowerment’ in Indian cricket.

Reflecting on India’s remarkable comeback and composure under pressure, he told ANI, “Our women are empowered in a true sense. Their commitment, determination and ‘never say die’ attitude are visible today, and I hope the winning streak will continue coming Sunday.”

How India toppled Australia’s juggernaut

The semifinal turned into one of the greatest spectacles in women’s cricket history. Australia, after winning the toss and opting to bat, posted a formidable 338 runs. Phoebe Litchfield led the charge with a dazzling 119 off 93 balls, supported by Ellyse Perry’s composed 77. Even as India pulled things back through Shree Charani and Deepti Sharma, the Aussies looked strong heading into the second innings. It was a target that no women’s team had ever chased! Also, the semi-final pressure adds up.

But the night belonged to Jemimah Rodrigues. Chasing the highest-ever target in women’s ODI history, Jemimah produced a masterclass, remaining unbeaten on 127 off 134 deliveries. Despite running out of fuel at the end, she anchored India’s chase alongside skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, who struck a fluent 89. Their 167-run partnership not only steadied the innings after early wickets but also turned a near-impossible task into a reality. Richa Ghosh and Amanjot Kaur’s brisk cameos sealed the chase with nine balls to spare, sending the Indian dugout into wild celebrations.