Mumbai: India captain Harmanpreet Kaur playing her fifth World Cup expressed immense pride and satisfaction after leading her team to a historic victory over Australia in the Women’s World Cup semifinal, securing a spot in the final against South Africa. Despite the challenge of chasing a formidable target of 339 set by the defending champions, India successfully achieved the chase with five wickets to spare.

Reflecting on the team's performance, Harmanpreet candidly acknowledged making a few mistakes but emphasised the team's growth through learning. "Very proud. I don't have words to express myself. Feeling great, this time we have crossed that line which we have been working towards for so many years," she said. The captain described a trusting environment within the squad, stating, "We have that trust that any player can win any match from any situation."

Harmanpreet revealed that she and the head coach shared words of encouragement after the win, underscoring the hard work and determination that led to this moment. "We spoke to each other that we have done this because we have been working so hard. Both of us are really proud of this team," she added.

Highlighting the team's resilience, Harmanpreet said, "Today, we wanted everything to go in our favour in every situation, and kept telling ourselves to be there for the team, and that worked for us."

In the semifinal, Harmanpreet delivered a crucial 89 off 88 balls, contributing two sixes and ten fours to stabilise the innings after an early wicket. Her captain’s knock, combined with Jemimah Rodrigues’ unbeaten 127, inspired India to orchestrate one of the highest successful chases in Women's World Cup history.

With this win, Harmanpreet Kaur becomes the second Indian captain to lead the women's team to a World Cup final, marking a major milestone in Indian women's cricket. India will now face South Africa in the final scheduled for November 2.