Women's World Cup 2025: Skipper Harmanpreet recounts coach Muzumdar's fiery pep talk which sparked record chase in semi-finals

Published - 31 Oct 2025, 16:21 IST | Updated - 31 Oct 2025, 16:33 IST

India Women skipper Harmanpreet Kaur reflected on the powerful message head coach Amol Muzumdar delivered, which prompted India to chase down a mammoth 339 in the semi-final clash against Australia at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai. While Jemimah Rodrigues smashed a match-winning century, Harmanpreet's 88-ball 89 also proved vital in India's epic batting masterclass on Thursday.

Harmanpreet admitted that she did not say anything to the team at first after their third straight loss in the league phase. She let Muzumdar do the talking. Post Muzumdar's motivational speech, Harmanpreet said that she had a chat with the team while discussing the head coach's sentiments on taking responsibility in the all-important encounter.

"I didn't speak a word after that match (vs England) because he was the one speaking — 'You should’ve saved the match' (mimicking Muzumdar). Everybody took that in good spirit. We all believe whatever sir says because he always speaks from the heart. After that, I spoke to all the players because I wanted to see what they were feeling, as sir is expecting the right things from us. That’s also what the entire country expects from us. Everybody took it positively, and today (vs Australia), you can see that in the way everyone played," stated Harmanpreet while speaking to Star Sports.

Harmanpreet, Jemimah break down after IND's historic SF win

A massive 167-run stand for the third wicket between Harmanpreet and Player of the Match Jemimah Rodrigues meant India got over the line in 48.3 overs. Jemimah remained unbeaten till the end, racking up 127 off 134 under her belt. This meant the record for the highest successful run-chase in women's ODIs had a new team holding the milestone.

Harmanpreet & Co. will now take on South Africa in the summit clash at the same venue as the former's semi-final fixture. The Women in Blue came second-best in the league phase contest against Laura Wolvaardt's team by three wickets and seven balls in the tank. Nadine de Klerk had starred with an all-round display in that particular match.