Navi Mumbai, Oct 24: India roared back into form with a commanding 53-run victory over New Zealand to seal a spot in the semifinals of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup.

The win, powered by dazzling centuries from openers Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal, marked a dramatic turnaround after three consecutive defeats.

Facing immense pressure, the Women in Blue delivered a near-perfect performance at the DY Patil Stadium.

Mandhana scored an aggressive 95-ball 109 while Rawal compiled 122 off 134 balls as they shared a massive 212-run partnership as India posted a massive 340/3 in 49 overs. Though New Zealand were set a revised target of 325 in 44 overs following another rain interruption, clinical bowling by the Indians restricted the White Ferns to 271/8 in 44 overs.

The Indian team also came up with an inspired decision to promote Jemimah Rodrigues to No.3, and the Mumbai batter blazed to a 55-ball 76 to help India to a massive total.

Also read: Women's World Cup: Match Reduced To 44-Overs A Side; NZ To Chase Revised Target Of 325 Vs India

The India skipper acknowledged that it is not easy to play at home because of the huge expectations, but said the team has decided to enjoy the situation instead of considering it as pressure.

India now joins Australia, England, and South Africa in the final four, with hopes high for a maiden title on home soil.