NEW DELHI: A proud Amol Muzumdar - the Indian women's team coach and a domestic cricket stalwart who never got to wear the national colours - revealed that his only message to the team before the semifinal against seven-time champions Australia was simple: "finish well."

And his players delivered to perfection.

Chasing a daunting 339, Jemimah Rodrigues rose to the occasion with a masterful unbeaten 127 off 134 balls, guiding India to a five-wicket win and into their third Women's ODI World Cup final. She set the tone for the chase with a crucial 167-run partnership alongside skipper Harmanpreet Kaur (89).

"There were no big messages. We always told each other we need to finish well. We usually start well, but finishing has been our area to improve. Today was that day," Muzumdar said after the famous win.

Since taking charge of the women's team in October 2023, Amol Muzumdar has brought a sense of calm, stability, and clear direction to the dressing room.

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Though India's losses to Australia, England, and South Africa in the group stage had raised a few eyebrows, the seasoned domestic campaigner remained unfazed, steadfast in his vision and goals for the team.

Prior to the semifinal against Australia, Muzumdar had written just one sentence on the whiteboard: "We just need one more run than them to reach the final."

Muzumdar made some bold decisions and backed youngsters like Kranti Goud and Shree Charani, which paid rich dividends.

"Kranti has been sensational since her debut. She's young, but she's done wonders with every opportunity. She's learning every day. Renuka Thakur complements her beautifully," Muzumdar said.

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He also backed Rodrigues to the hilt, and his decision to promote her at No.3 turned out to be a masterstroke.

"I always felt Jemi has the temperament to shift gears. That one move made a difference," Muzumdar said.

The 50-year-old Mumbai stalwart too praised other senior players, including skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, vice-captain Smriti Mandhana and Deepti Sharma.

"Harman was calm, smiling all the way through. Deepti kept motivating everyone, and Smriti was her usual cheerful self. Everyone knows their role, and that helps," Muzumdar said.

Muzumdar said the loss against England in the group stage fired up the side.

"The next practice session had more energy and intent. Sometimes it's not failure. It's just a hiccup that teaches you more... I am still in daze (after the win against Australia)."

(With PTI Inputs)