Bangladesh became the first team to be knocked out of Women’s World Cup 2025, following their seven-run defeat against Sri Lanka on Monday. While England, Australia and South Africa have already qualified for the knockouts, India, NZ, SL and Pakistan are fighting to join them there.
The Race Heats Up for the Last Semi-Final Berth
The Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 has reached a thrilling climax. Australia, South Africa, and England have already secured their semi-final places. However, one spot remains fiercely contested. Four teams—India, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan—are still in the race. Therefore, every upcoming match carries massive weight. Moreover, net run rate and weather conditions now play crucial roles. Consequently, fans must track every ball closely.
India’s Path to the Knockouts
If India defeats New Zealand on Thursday, they will book their semi-final ticket immediately. Alternatively, a washout in that game could still benefit them. Specifically, India would qualify if England beats New Zealand later. However, if India loses to New Zealand, their fate depends on other results. In that case, they must hope New Zealand falls to England. Additionally, Bangladesh would need to beat India on Sunday—an unlikely but possible twist. Furthermore, if both India’s matches are washed out, they advance—provided England defeats or ties with New Zealand.
New Zealand’s Do-or-Die Situation
New Zealand faces an all-or-nothing clash against India. Indeed, a loss ends their tournament journey instantly. On the other hand, two wins guarantee their semi-final entry. Even if they beat India but lose to England, hope remains—but only if Bangladesh upsets India. Also, a washout against India helps them only if they then beat England. Meanwhile, if both their games are abandoned, they qualify only if no rival reaches six points. Crucially, New Zealand currently holds a better net run rate than Sri Lanka and Pakistan.
Sri Lanka’s Narrow Window
Sri Lanka’s chances are slim but mathematically alive. First, they must defeat Pakistan convincingly. Then, they need India to lose both remaining games. Simultaneously, England must beat New Zealand in the final league match. Even then, Sri Lanka would tie with New Zealand on six points. However, unless their victory margin over Pakistan is huge, net run rate will eliminate them. Thus, their path demands near-perfect execution and favorable external results.
Pakistan’s Uphill Battle
Remarkably, Pakistan remains in contention despite zero wins so far. To progress, they must beat both South Africa and Sri Lanka. Additionally, their net run rate must surpass New Zealand’s—a tall order. Furthermore, they need India to lose both upcoming matches. Without those twin defeats, Pakistan’s campaign ends regardless of their own results. Hence, their survival hinges on multiple unlikely outcomes aligning perfectly.