When Alyssa Healy, captain of Australia women's cricket team smashed an unbeaten 113* against Bangladesh on Oct 20, 2025, she not only propelled Australia into the knockout stage but also hit the Women's Cricket World Cup milestone of 7,000 international runs. Two days later, International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the semi‑final fixtures for the 2025 edition, pitting Australia against hosts India and setting South Africa opposite England. The matches, slated for Oct 30 and Oct 29 respectively, will decide who contests the final on Nov 2, 2025.
How the Semi‑Final Line‑up Was Decided
Both Australia and India secured their spots with decisive league‑stage wins. Australia clinched top position after a 7‑wicket triumph over South Africa at Dr. DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Oct 25. Leg‑spinner Alana King ripped through the South African batting line‑up, finishing with figures of 4/12.
India, meanwhile, earned the second berth by beating New Zealand 6‑0 at the same venue on Oct 24. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur guided the side with a gritty 48‑run knock and a brilliant catch that sparked a momentum shift.
Australia vs India: A Rivalry Renewed
The Australia‑India semi‑final will be the first World Cup clash between the two sides since the 2017 edition in England. Historically, Australia dominates, winning all six previous World Cup semi‑final meetings. Yet India’s recent surge – including a record chase of 280 against England in the group stage – suggests the gap may be narrowing.
Key battles to watch include Healy’s explosive batting versus India’s spin attack, led by Alana King. If King can repeat her four‑for performance, India could contain Australia’s top order long enough for their own batters to seize control.
South Africa vs England: The Dark Horse Duel
South Africa booked their semi‑final slot after a rain‑shortened 20‑over win over Sri Lanka on Oct 22 at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Kandy. All‑rounder Laura Wolvaardt anchored the chase with an unbeaten 60, while bowler Nonkululeko Mlaba took three wickets.
England, on the other hand, clinched the third spot by beating Pakistan at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore on Oct 23. Opening star Tammy Beaumont smashed 78 off 98 balls, and fast bowler Katherine Brunt returned figures of 3/22.
The Guwahati clash at ACA International Cricket Stadium on Oct 29 promises high‑octane action. England’s depth in pace could test South Africa’s relatively fragile middle order, while the Proteas’ aggressive field placements might unsettle the English batters.
Key Players to Watch
- Alyssa Healy – Australian wicket‑keeper‑batter; 7,000‑run milestone adds extra pressure.
- Harmanpreet Kaur – India's captain; her leadership now is under the microscope.
- Alana King – Australia's leg‑spinner; a potential match‑winner on sub‑continental pitches.
- Laura Wolvaardt – South Africa’s top‑order anchor; consistency will be vital.
- Tammy Beaumont – England’s explosive opener; a fast start could dictate the chase.
What the Semi‑Finals Mean for Women's Cricket
Beyond the trophies, the 2025 semi‑finals carry symbolic weight. For India, hosting two of the four knockout games underlines the country's growing investment in the women’s game, from stadium upgrades to grassroots programs. The ICC’s decision to stream every match on ICC.tv, alongside traditional broadcasters Star Sports (India) and SuperSport (South Africa), ensures global visibility.
Analysts such as former Australian all‑rounder Ian Healy (not to be confused with the batsman) note that the diversity of venues – from the high‑altitude pitches of Guwahati to the spin‑friendly surfaces in Navi Mumbai – showcases how the sport is adapting to varied conditions, a trend that could influence future tournament planning.
Looking Ahead to the Final
Regardless of which pair advances, the final scheduled for Nov 2, 2025, promises a showdown between two of cricket’s powerhouses. The ICC has yet to name the venue, but speculation points to a neutral site with a capacity of at least 50,000 to accommodate the anticipated fan surge.
Fans should also keep an eye on the tie‑breaking rules that shaped the qualifiers: number of wins takes precedence over net‑run rate, a nuance that rescued India despite three consecutive losses earlier in the league phase.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will the number‑of‑wins rule affect the semi‑final line‑up?
The ICC’s tie‑breaker prioritises total victories over net‑run rate. This favored India, which secured three wins despite a 6‑point tally equal to New Zealand’s. Consequently, India clinched the second semi‑final spot even before their final group match.
Which venue will host the final?
The ICC has not announced the final’s stadium yet. Inside sources suggest a large venue in either Mumbai or Delhi, both capable of handling the expected 50,000‑plus crowd and offering world‑class facilities.
What are the chances of an upset in the South Africa‑England semi‑final?
England enters as the higher‑ranked side, yet South Africa’s recent rain‑shortened win demonstrated depth in batting and a potent spin attack. If Wolvaardt repeats her 60* and the bowlers keep England’s run‑rate in check, an upset is plausible.
How will the semi‑finals impact viewership of women’s cricket?
The high‑profile match‑ups, especially the Australia‑India clash in front of a massive home crowd, are expected to boost TV ratings and digital streams. Early indicators from Star Sports suggest a 30% rise in viewership compared with the tournament’s opening week.
Who are the standout performers to watch in the semi‑finals?
Beyond the stars already mentioned, keep an eye on Australia’s all‑rounder Jess Jonassen, India’s pace spearhead Shafali Verma, South Africa’s left‑arm fast bowler Marizanne Kapp, and England’s medium‑pacer Anya Shrubsole, all of whom could turn the game with a single spell.
