Mumbai: Jemimah Rodrigues produced a career-defining knock as India scripted a historic chase to reach the Women’s World Cup final with a five-wicket victory over defending champions Australia on Thursday.

Chasing a record 339, Rodrigues anchored the innings superbly with an unbeaten 127 off 134 balls, guiding India home with nine balls to spare. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur provided excellent support, scoring 89 off 88 deliveries, while Deepti Sharma (24) and Richa Ghosh (26) made valuable contributions in the middle order.

India will now face South Africa in the title clash.

Earlier, Australia posted a formidable 338 in their 50 overs, powered by opener Phoebe Litchfield’s 119 off 93 balls. Ellyse Perry added 77 off 88 deliveries during a 155-run partnership for the second wicket, while Ashleigh Gardner’s rapid 65 off 45 balls ensured a strong finish after they opted to bat first.

Among Indian bowlers, young spinner Shree Charani (2/49 in 10 overs) stood out with a composed effort, while Deepti Sharma took 2 for 73. For Australia, Kim Garth (2/46) and Annabel Sutherland (2/69) were their most successful bowlers.

Brief Scores:

Australia 338 in 50 overs (Phoebe Litchfield 119, Ellyse Perry 77, Ashleigh Gardner 65; Deepti Sharma 2/73, Shree Charani 2/49)

India 341/5 in 48.3 overs (Jemimah Rodrigues 127*, Harmanpreet Kaur 89; Kim Garth 2/46)

With inputs from PTI