Team India’s hopes of reaching the Women’s World Cup 2025 semi-finals took a major hit after a narrow four-run loss to England at the Holkar Stadium, Indore, on Sunday. Despite a commanding 125-run partnership between Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana, India’s batting collapse in the final overs cost them a crucial victory.
Chasing 289, India looked on course for a memorable win until Mandhana’s dismissal for 88 shifted the momentum. Harmanpreet, who scored 70, admitted after the match that Mandhana’s wicket was the turning point. “Smriti’s wicket completely changed the flow of the game,” she said. “We had enough batters left, but somehow things went the other way. Credit to England—they bowled with great discipline and didn’t give us any easy chances.”
The skipper’s disappointment was clear as she reflected on another close defeat. “It’s heartbreaking because we worked hard and stayed consistent throughout the match. The last five to six overs just didn’t go as planned. We’ve been playing quality cricket, but crossing that final line has been the challenge for us lately,” Harmanpreet added.
India’s chase derailed after Mandhana’s wicket in the 42nd over, followed by Deepti Sharma’s dismissal for 52 in the 47th over. The lower middle order, including Amanjot Kaur and Sneh Rana, couldn’t finish the job, while the absence of Jemimah Rodrigues from the lineup raised eyebrows among fans and experts.
England’s Heather Knight had earlier led the way with a brilliant century, guiding her team to 288/8. This defeat marked India’s third consecutive loss in the tournament, following setbacks against South Africa and Australia, leaving them in a must-win situation for their next game.
Reflecting on the team’s outlook, Harmanpreet said, “When Smriti and I were batting, everything was under control. But cricket can change in moments. We still believe in ourselves, and the next game against New Zealand will be crucial. We’ll regroup and fight back.”
India will face New Zealand in a do-or-die clash at the Dr DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on October 23, hoping to keep their semi-final dreams alive.