It was a night of raw emotion and pure joy as Jemimah Rodrigues delivered the innings of her life to power India into the Women’s World Cup final — and then broke down in tears as she reunited with her father after the match.
At the Dr DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, the Indian women’s cricket team pulled off a record-breaking run chase to defeat seven-time champions Australia and secure a spot in Sunday’s final. Chasing 339, India triumphed with five wickets in hand and nine balls to spare, thanks to Jemimah’s unbeaten 127 off 134 balls, studded with 14 boundaries.
An Emotional Moment After the Greatest Knock of Her Career
After receiving the Player of the Match award, Jemimah walked toward the stands to meet her family. The 25-year-old right-hander, unable to hold back her emotions, broke down again — this time, tears of joy.
She first hugged her father, who watched her with quiet pride, and then embraced the rest of her family as fans chanted her name around the stadium.
“Look at the emotions for Jemimah. It’s been a tough one, an anxiety-ridden one. It’s wonderful to see how she put her heart on her sleeve,” said broadcaster Mayanti Langer, describing the touching moment.
Jemimah was also seen joining her hands and whispering “Thank you” — a gesture directed toward her parents and supporters in the crowd.
From Setback to Stardom
Jemimah’s journey to this defining moment wasn’t easy.
She was dropped from India’s league-stage fixture against England but returned strong, promoted to No. 3 in the next match against New Zealand — where she struck a fluent half-century.
However, the semi-final against Australia brought out her very best. She shared a match-defining 167-run partnership with captain Harmanpreet Kaur, anchoring the chase under immense pressure.
Her resilience and composure at the crease showcased both mental strength and maturity beyond her years.
Jemimah’s Fortunate Day and Mental Battle
It truly seemed to be Jemimah’s day, as she survived two dropped catches by Alyssa Healy and Tahlia McGrath, as well as a close LBW appeal. Taking full advantage, she guided India home with confidence and calm.
In her post-match speech, Jemimah opened up about her battle with anxiety and emotional lows during the World Cup.
“I cried every day through this World Cup,” she revealed. “Last year, I was dropped. But I told myself — this time, I’ll play for joy, not pressure.”
She added that Navi Mumbai holds a special place in her heart, calling it a city that has “always blessed her with unforgettable moments.”
“I want to thank everyone who came, cheered, shouted, and believed,” Jemimah said. “Every run they celebrated gave me energy. This is for all of you.”
🇮🇳 India’s Historic Chase and The Road Ahead
With this victory, India achieved the highest successful run chase in Women’s World Cup history, ending Australia’s dominance and advancing to the final against South Africa on November 2.
The win not only marks a turning point for Indian women’s cricket but also establishes Jemimah Rodrigues as one of the brightest stars of the game.
“She showed what it means to believe in yourself,” said captain Harmanpreet Kaur. “Jemimah didn’t just win a match — she inspired a generation.”
