Heartbreak for India: England Advances to World Cup Semi-Finals

In a dramatic turn of events at the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, England has triumphed over India by four runs, clinching their place in the semi-finals. The Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore witnessed a tense battle where England’s bowlers held their nerve to defend a total of 288 for 8, which they had posted after opting to bat first. This decisive win makes England the third team to qualify for the semi-finals, alongside powerhouses Australia and South Africa. For the host nation, India, this match signifies the end of their World Cup campaign, marking their third successive loss. India’s chase was anchored by a brilliant innings from Smriti Mandhana, who scored 88 runs. Harmanpreet Kaur provided valuable support with a well-compiled 70, and Deepti Sharma added a gritty 50. These contributions kept India within striking distance for a significant period. However, England’s bowling unit displayed remarkable composure, consistently breaking partnerships at critical moments. As the required run rate escalated, England’s bowlers applied immense pressure, making the chase an uphill battle for India in the final overs. Natalie Sciver-Brunt led the English attack with figures of 2 for 47, while Linsey Smith, Charlie Dean, Sophie Ecclestone, and Lauren Bell each contributed with a vital wicket, ensuring their team’s passage to the next stage of the tournament.