Hosts India have suffered successive losses against Australia and South Africa in the ongoing ICC Women's ODI World Cup after starting the showpiece event with two convincing wins. The latest setback for the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side came against seven-time World Cup champions Australia by three wickets on Sunday, October 12, in Vizag.
Chasing a massive score of 331, Australia skipper Alyssa Healy led the way with bat in hand with a sparkling ton, as the team completed the highest successful run chase in Women's ODI history, winning the match with six balls to spare, leaving India with two losses on the bounce. However, despite the setbacks, India is placed third on the points with four points, while the top four teams progress to the semi-final stage.
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Australia are currently leading the points table with seven points from four games, followed by England, with six points from three games. South Africa, with four points and a game in hand, is placed fourth due to a negative net run rate.
What does India needs to do to qualify for the Semi-final?
With Australia and England well placed to qualify for the semis, the race for semis is expected to be a three-way contest for the remaining two spots between India, New Zealand, and South Africa. The Women In Blue's upcoming three games are vital against England, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. A win against four-time World Cup Champions England will give India a huge advantage, while a slip-up would leave the Kaur-led side in a spot of bother. Beating Bangladesh is expected from the Asian side; however, it may not be enough.
South Africa, having already beaten two tougher teams, New Zealand and India, holds a massive edge to qualify for the semi-final before their final league game against Australia. New Zealand, on the other hand, has already lost two games against Australia and South Africa, but still has matches left against Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and India. They could potentially enter the match against India already on six points, making it a virtual quarter-final game for both sides.
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The Kaur-led side needs at least two wins from their remaining three games - ideally three wins - to have a real shot at the last four stage. Achieving a hat-trick of wins will bolster their chances significantly, while just the two wins will put them on the edge, making them reliant on net run rate factor and other results. With Australia and England in a strong position to reach the semi-final stage, India would have to navigate this situation with absolute conviction.
While the situation may seem a big challenge for the Kaur-led side, reaching the semi-final is still in their own hands. With a huge amount of experience, talent, and crowd support, India would be eager to come out of this phase with flying colors.
