URGENT UPDATE: Australia has won the toss and opted to bat first against India in the highly anticipated second semifinal of the Women’s Cricket World Cup on October 19, 2025, at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. This match is crucial as Australia aims for a record-extending eighth World Cup final.
Captain Alyssa Healy, who recently recovered from a calf injury that kept her out of the last two matches, has returned to lead the defending champions. Australia, on a remarkable 16-match unbeaten run in World Cups since 2022, is looking to overpower India, a team with which it holds a strong World Cup record of 11 wins to 3 losses.
In a significant change for India, Shafali Verma is back in the squad after Pratika Rawal was ruled out due to an ankle injury sustained during a league match against Bangladesh. Verma, who has played 29 ODIs with 774 runs at an average of 23 and a strike rate of 83.20, was not part of the original squad but has stepped straight into the playing XI.
India has also made two other vital changes: wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh returns after a rest, and medium-pacer Kranti Goud replaces Harleen Deol. Meanwhile, Australia has brought in Sophie Molineux for wrist spinner Georgia Wareham, solidifying their lineup. Healy’s presence is expected to bolster the batting order, having scored back-to-back centuries earlier in the tournament.
The pitch at DY Patil Stadium is anticipated to favor batters, with some spin expected as the game progresses. Although there is a chance of rain, organizers have set aside a reserve day to ensure the match can proceed without interruption.
As the match unfolds, all eyes will be on the performance of both teams, particularly how Australia leverages its experience and India’s young talent. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if Australia can continue its dominance or if India can stage a stunning upset.
Stay tuned for real-time updates as this thrilling semifinal progresses!
