ICC Women’s ODI World Cup - A brief history & current event
The ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 has emerged as one of the most remarkable editions in the history of women’s cricket, uniting the world’s best teams in a month-long festival of talent, passion, and competition. Co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, this year’s tournament has drawn big crowds in some matches , delivered thrilling encounters, and celebrated the continued rise of women’s cricket across the globe.
India’s Historic Semi-Final Triumph
In what will be remembered as one of the greatest moments in Indian women’s cricket, India stormed into the final after a dramatic semi-final victory over defending champions Australia at Navi Mumbai.
Australia had set an imposing target of 338 runs, powered by their experienced batting lineup. But India responded with sheer determination and brilliance. Riding on Jemimah Rodrigues’ unbeaten 127 off 134 balls and captain Harmanpreet Kaur’s 89, India successfully chased down the target, finishing at 341/5 in 48.3 overs — the highest successful run chase in Women’s ODI World Cup history.
Their 167-run partnership turned the match on its head and showcased India’s growing maturity under pressure. For Rodrigues, it was a career-defining innings that established her as one of the most dependable batters in modern women’s cricket.
This victory not only propelled India to their third World Cup final (after 2005 and 2017) but also marked a symbolic moment in the evolution of Indian women’s sport — one of grit, composure, and belief.
In the other Semi final underdogs South Africa pulled off a remarkable all round show to send 4 time winner England packing. Skipper Laura Wolvaardt played a captains knock of 169 & mainstay all rounder Marizanne Kapp took 5 wickets to send England crashing out of the event with a loss by 125 runs .
Tournament Overview and Host Nations
The 2025 ICC Women’s ODI World Cup is being played from 30 September to 2 November 2025, featuring eight top international teams. Matches are being held across premier venues in India and Sri Lanka, marking Sri Lanka’s first time as co-host of the tournament.
India, a seasoned host with a passionate fanbase, is staging the event for the fourth time, while Sri Lanka’s inclusion underlines South Asia’s growing influence in global women’s cricket. Together, the two nations have provided a festive backdrop for the game. However rains also dampened the show in one venue Colombo with 5 matches ending in no results .
Dominant Forces and Standout Teams
While India’s semi-final heroics have dominated headlines, several other teams have also displayed exceptional cricket particularly South Africa .
Australia, despite their semi-final exit, reaffirmed their consistency, maintaining their position as the most successful team in World Cup history.
England and New Zealand continued to showcase depth in their squads, with young players emerging as new global stars.
South Africa impressed with their all-round performance, reflecting the growing competitiveness across women’s cricket nations. They pulled off some thrilling wins and finally reached their 1st ever final .
The tournament has revealed a balance between traditional powers and emerging contenders, signaling a promising new era for the women’s game.
A Legacy of Champions
The Women’s Cricket World Cup, inaugurated in 1973, remains the oldest global women’s sporting event. Organized by the International Cricket Council (ICC), it stands as the pinnacle of One Day International (ODI) cricket for women.
Over the decades, legendary cricketers such as Belinda Clark, Karen Rolton, Mithali Raj, and Meg Lanning have illuminated this tournament with iconic performances.
Historically, Australia has dominated the competition with seven titles (1978, 1982, 1988, 1997, 2005, 2013, and 2022). England follows with four victories (1973, 1993, 2009, 2017), while New Zealand won once, in 2000.
The 2025 edition, however, may well redefine the global balance of power — with India’s spirited campaign and the overall rise in competitiveness pointing toward an exciting future for the women’s game.
The 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup has already left a deep mark on the sport — not just for its thrilling cricket but for its role in inspiring millions of young girls around the world. The images of Jemimah Rodrigues and Harmanpreet Kaur scripting history under the floodlights of Navi Mumbai will remain etched in cricketing memory.
As the final approaches between India & South Africa, one thing is certain — this edition has elevated the status, reach, and respect of women’s cricket like never before, laying a strong foundation for the generations that will follow. And to top it all, this edition will provide us a new champion as both India and South Africa will compete for their first ever World cup title .

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