Published on: Oct 28, 2025 5:21 pm IST|Updated on: Oct 29, 2025 9:13 am IST
And then, there were 4. The ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 has boiled down to the knockout stage as we have our 4 semifinalists. Australia, England, South Africa, and India are the 4 teams remaining teams who will compete in the crunch semifinals starting from October 29.
After weeks of intense competition, thrilling finishes, and standout performances, the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 has reached its penultimate stage. Each side brings its own narrative, strengths, and ambitions to the knockout stage, setting the stage for two high-voltage clashes that will determine who plays for the coveted title.
Australia Women have once again proven why they are the most dominant force in women’s cricket. The reigning and seven-time champions finished the group stage undefeated, securing 6 wins and 1 no-result from their seven matches. Their consistency, depth, and adaptability have been unmatched, earning them the pole position on the points table.
Led by a tactically astute captain and backed by a blend of experienced campaigners and rising stars, Australia’s campaign has been a masterclass in execution. Their batting unit, featuring the likes of Beth Mooney, Alyssa Healy, and Ellyse Perry, has delivered under pressure, while their bowling attack, anchored by Megan Schutt, Ashleigh Gardner, and Alana King, has kept opponents in check.
Australia will face India in the second semifinal, a rematch of their group-stage encounter. With their unbeaten run and championship pedigree, Australia enters the knockouts as clear favorites.
England Women, the four-time champions, have quietly built a formidable campaign, finishing second on the table with 5 wins, 1 loss, and 1 no-result. Their only defeat came against Australia, but they bounced back strongly to dominate the rest of their fixtures.
Under the leadership of Nat Sciver-Brunt, England have showcased a well-rounded squad. Tammy Beaumont and Amy Jones have anchored the top order, while Heather Knight and the skipper herself have added flair and aggression in the middle. Their bowling unit, featuring Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Bell, and Charlie Dean, has been both economical and incisive.
England’s most emphatic win came against South Africa, where they chased down a modest target without losing a wicket. That psychological edge will be crucial as they prepare to face the Proteas Women again in the first semifinal. With a balanced side and proven match-winners, England are well-positioned to challenge for their fifth title.
South Africa Women have had a rollercoaster journey in the group stage, finishing third with 5 wins and 2 losses. Despite setbacks against Australia and England, the Proteas showed resilience and tactical maturity to secure their spot in the final four.
Led by Laura Wolvaardt, South Africa’s campaign has been built on aggressive batting and disciplined bowling. Marizanne Kapp, Chloe Tryon, and Ayabonga Khaka have played pivotal roles in key matches, while their fielding has shown marked improvement.
Their semifinal clash against England offers a chance at redemption. Having suffered a heavy defeat in the group stage, South Africa will need to bring their A-game, especially in terms of batting partnerships and middle-overs control. If they can hold their nerve and execute their plans, an upset is not out of reach.
India Women barely secured the final semifinal spot, finishing fourth with 3 wins, 3 losses, and 1 no-result (against Bangladesh). Their campaign has been a mix of promise and inconsistency, but crucial wins against New Zealand helped them edge past other teams and make it to the semifinals.
Led by Harmanpreet Kaur, India’s strength lies in their explosive top order and versatile bowling attack. Smriti Mandhana, Pratika Rawal, and Jemimah Rodrigues have delivered with the bat, while Kranti Goud and Deepti Sharma have led the charge with the ball.
India’s semifinal against Australia will be a test of temperament and tactical clarity. Playing in front of a passionate home crowd, the hosts will look to channel their energy and challenge the reigning champions. If India can strike early and build pressure, they have the firepower to pull off a massive upset in the semis against the reigning champions.