In a dramatic showdown at the Women’s World Cup in Indore, England secured their place in the semifinals with a narrow four-run victory over hosts India. Despite a shaky bowling performance, England’s competitive total of 288-8, anchored by Heather Knight’s stellar century, proved just enough to edge out the Indian side. Knight’s masterful 109 off 91 balls, featuring 15 fours and a six, was the cornerstone of England’s innings, earning her the Player of the Match accolade. The match took a dramatic turn when India, seemingly in control with 62 runs needed off the last 10 overs and seven wickets in hand, suffered a sudden collapse. The dismissals of Smriti Mandhana, Richa Ghosh, and Deepti Sharma in quick succession derailed India’s chase, leaving their tailenders with an insurmountable task. Mandhana’s reckless attempt to clear long-off and Sharma’s ill-fated slog sweep were pivotal moments that shifted the momentum decisively in England’s favor. India’s third consecutive defeat has left their semifinal hopes hanging by a thread, with their upcoming match against New Zealand now a must-win encounter. Meanwhile, England’s clinical performance has cemented their position in the semifinals, sitting second on the table with nine points, just behind defending champions Australia. Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur expressed her disappointment, lamenting the team’s inability to close out the game despite coming so close in their last three matches.