Navi Mumbai, India – In a stunning display of athleticism and skill, Australian opener Phoebe Litchfield shattered a 20-year-old record, scoring the fastest century in a Women's World Cup knockout match. The record-breaking feat occurred during the semi-final clash against India at the D.Y. Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Thursday, October 30, 2025.
Litchfield's explosive innings of 119 runs off just 93 balls, which included 17 fours and three sixes, propelled Australia to a formidable total of 338. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Australia faced an early setback with the dismissal of captain Alyssa Healy. However, Litchfield took charge, forming a crucial 155-run partnership with Ellyse Perry, who contributed a solid 77. Ashleigh Gardner added a final flourish with a quickfire 63 off 45 balls.
Litchfield reached her century in a mere 77 deliveries, eclipsing the previous record for the fastest World Cup knockout century. At 22 years and 195 days, she also became the youngest player to achieve this milestone in a Women's World Cup knockout game. She is also the second-youngest Australian to score a century in the competition's history.
The young left-hander's innings was marked by aggressive stroke play and innovative shot selection, which unsettled the Indian bowlers. Litchfield targeted all areas of the field, maintaining a high strike rate throughout her innings. Her dominance against India continued, with her now boasting eight fifties and three hundreds in 35 Women's One Day International (WODI) innings.
Litchfield's record-breaking innings places her in an elite group of Australian cricketers. She is now the third Australian to score a century in a Women's World Cup knockout game, joining Alyssa Healy and Karen Rolton. She is also the fifth Australian to register multiple tons against India in the format, alongside Alex Blackwell, Rolton, Beth Mooney, and Healy.
This was Litchfield's maiden World Cup century and her third overall. Her innings came to an end when she was dismissed by Amanjot Kaur, but her contribution had already put Australia in a commanding position.
The Indian team now faces a daunting task, requiring the highest successful chase in women's ODI history to secure a victory. The defending champions, Australia, entered the semi-final as favorites, having won all but one of their matches in the league stage. Their unbeaten streak in ODI World Cups stretches back to 2017.
Australia has historically dominated the Women's World Cup, winning the title seven times. They also won the 2022 edition without losing a game. The United States is second with four titles. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on whether Australia can maintain their dominance and secure another World Cup victory.
