New Delhi: Harmanpreet Kaur-led India is gearing to face New Zealand in the Women’s World Cup 2025, they will look to end their three-match losing streak. The high-stakes clash in Navi Mumbai on Thursday will serve as a virtual quarterfinal, with a semifinal spot on the line.
If the India’s team emerges victorious in the White Ferns at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, they could secure the fourth place in the race for the semifinals.
However, if India misses this opportunity just like their previous three matches, they may need other results to go their way. Following their loss to New Zealand, England would need to beat the White Ferns and then defeat Bangladesh in India’s final group match to secure qualification.
Weather forecast predicts rain or thunderstorm
With forecasts predicting rain or thundershowers later in the evening or night, New Zealand, who needs to wins their next two games to stay in contention, faces the threat of weather disruptions. India, with more wins and a superior net run rate, would gain an advantage in case of a washout, boosting their chances of reaching the semifinals.
India has visibly struggled under pressure, as the batters failed to deliver despite holding strong positions. The team lost three consecutive matches against fellow World Cup semifinalists South Africa, England, and defending champion Australia. The most heartbreaking defeat came in Indore, which Harmanpreet Kaur described as a “heartbreak,” when India failed to chase 56 runs off 54 balls with seven wickets in hand on a batting-friendly pitch. Meanwhile, Australia and South Africa exploited India’s bowling vulnerabilities.
The weather may make things even more difficult. According to Google Weather, there is a 75% chance of rain and strong thunderstorms. Clear skies are predicted for the local start time of 3 p.m., but showers are forecast to get stronger about 5 p.m. and may last until midnight.
Weather might complicate India’s position
The weather could complicate India’s position. According to Google Weather, there is a 75% chance of rain accompanied by strong thunderstorms. While skies are expected to be clear at the local start time of 3 p.m., rainfall is predicted to intensify around 5 p.m. and may continue until midnight.
AccuWeather predicts a humid morning with real-feel temperatures reaching 41°C, along with the possibility of “a couple of thunderstorms” and heavy rain expected to last for about 90 minutes in the evening.
India’s clash against New Zealand is set to be a high-stakes clash both on and off the field, with semifinal qualification on the line and severe weather predicted.