Can India qualify for Women’s World Cup semifinals after back-to-back losses? Scenarios explained

After a thrilling high-scoring contest in Visakhapatnam on Sunday, India Women now find themselves in a tricky spot in the ongoing ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. Australia pulled off the highest-ever successful chase in women’s ODI history, chasing down 330 with three wickets and an over to spare, leaving India with their second consecutive defeat in the tournament.

India had earlier lost to South Africa in their previous game of the tournament. The Harmanpreet Kaur-led side started the competition on a positive note with two back-to-back wins against co-hosts Sri Lanka and arch-rivals Pakistan. However, they faced their first hurdle in the form of South Africa, where they lost by three wickets as well.

India will take on England and New Zealand in their next two outings before finishing the league stage against Bangladesh. The Women in Blue are likely to face a stiff challenge in the first two matches of their remaining three, though they might back themselves to secure a win in the final game.

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India’s position in the points table

After four matches, India have 4 points with two wins and two losses. Australia top the table with 7 points from four games, remaining unbeaten so far. Their match against Sri Lanka was abandoned due to rain. England are placed second after three straight wins in as many matches.

India are currently sitting in third place, with South Africa in fourth despite having the same points. Behind them are New Zealand (2), Bangladesh (2), and Sri Lanka (1), while Pakistan are yet to open their account, having lost three out of three matches.

Qualification scenarios for India

Despite the recent setbacks, India are still very much in the race for the semifinals, which is slated to begin on October 29. Here’s how India can qualify for the knockouts:

If India win all three remaining matches: They will finish with 10 points, ensuring a direct qualification to the semifinal irrespective of other results.

If India win two of their next three games: Their qualification will depend on Net Run Rate (NRR) and other results, but 8 points could still be enough for a top-four finish.

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If India lose two or more games: Their chances will rely heavily on how South Africa, New Zealand, and England fare in their remaining fixtures.