In a thrilling turn of events, Team India has secured its place in the Women’s World Cup 2025 final, following a spectacular semi-final victory over Australia. This remarkable performance was not just a game for the players, but also an opportunity for former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar to inject humor into the celebrations.
Gavaskar's Unique Promise
Sunil Gavaskar, renowned for his cricket prowess, made a light-hearted promise during a recent interview: if India emerges victorious in the World Cup final, he will perform a duet with star player Jemimah Rodrigues. He joked, "If India wins the World Cup, she and I - if she’s okay with it - will sing a song together. Ger guitar and I'll sing along!" This whimsical promise stems from previous collaborations between the two, highlighting a creative camaraderie off the pitch.
Exceptional Performance by Jemimah Rodrigues
Jemimah Rodrigues shone brightly in the semi-final, playing a pivotal role in India's success. She scored an extraordinary 127 runs from 134 balls, leading her team to chase 339 runs, setting a record for the highest successful chase in a Women’s World Cup knockout match. Her brilliant partnership with captain Harmanpreet Kaur of 167 runs laid the groundwork for the victory.
| Player | Runs | Balls Faced | Status |
| Jemimah Rodrigues | 127 | 134 | Not Out |
| Harmanpreet Kaur | ? | ? | Out |
Gavaskar’s Praise for the Team
Gavaskar further commended Rodrigues for her all-around performance, stating, "Her two sharp runouts prevented the total from crossing 350. With her international experience, she is very adept at reading the game and managing pressure effectively."
Looking Ahead: India's Final Challenge
As the final approaches, India is set to clash with South Africa. Gavaskar remains optimistic, crediting the team's home advantage and current excellent form. He stated, "The team’s confidence is at its peak. If they can keep this momentum, the World Cup trophy might just come home to India." The excitement continues as fans eagerly anticipate the grand finale this Sunday.