IND W VS BAN W MATCH 28

It’s time for the final group-stage clash of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, as India Women take on Bangladesh Women in what promises to be a competitive outing despite the semi-final lineup already being confirmed. India have sealed the fourth spot and will now be focusing on building momentum ahead of the knockouts, while Bangladesh, though out of contention, will be keen to finish their campaign on a high and take plenty of positives forward. India’s journey so far has been a blend of thrilling games, near misses, and inconsistency. Their qualification to the semis was confirmed after a clinical win over New Zealand in the last game, thanks to twin hundreds from Pratika Rawal and Smriti Mandhana - the latter once again showing her big-match temperament, while Rawal continues to break records, equalling the mark for the fastest to 1000 WODI runs. The batting unit has looked settled with Harmanpreet Kaur anchoring the middle order and Jemimah Rodrigues playing the ideal supporting role coming on the back of a fine half-century. However, the finishing touch in the lower order remains a concern, but Richa Ghosh and Deepti Sharma have shown glimpses that on their day, they can take on any bowling attack. On the bowling front, Kranti Gaud has been sharp with the new ball, while Deepti and Sneh Rana have applied the brakes effectively in the middle overs. India’s strength lies in their top order and their ability to dominate spinners - something they’ll want to carry into the semis, but they’ll hope for better fielding and discipline in the death overs. Bangladesh, meanwhile, may not have the results to show for it, but they’ve been one of the most spirited sides this World Cup. They began their campaign with a fine win over Pakistan and pushed both England and South Africa to the brink. Against Sri Lanka, they let a winning position slip away, a story that has defined their tournament - competitive, courageous, but unable to finish games. Sobhana Mostary and Fargana Hoque have been the pillars with the bat, while Nigar Sultana Joty’s leadership and middle-order stability have stood out. Shorna Akter has also played some quick-fire cameos down the order including the fastest fifty ever by a Bangladeshi player which came against South Africa. In the bowling department, Marufa Akter and Mst Ritu Moni have impressed with their control, and Rabeya Khan’s leg spin has added variety. Their bowling has been disciplined, but the lack of power hitting and experience under pressure has often cost them close contests. With India looking to fine-tune their game before the semi-finals and Bangladesh eager to prove a point against one of the tournament’s top sides, expect a contest full of intent and character - a fitting finale to the group stage of what has been an entertaining World Cup.