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After a testing run in the league stage, the Indian Women’s cricket team faces a virtual quarter-final against New Zealand in a critical India vs New Zealand group-stage match at the ICC Women's ODI World Cup 2025. With three teams already qualified for the semi-finals, only one spot remains, making this fixture an absolute must-win for both sides.

All scenarios explained: How India can reach the ICC Women's World Cup semis

The tournament has been a rollercoaster for the hosts. India started strongly with two wins but has since suffered three successive narrow defeats against top-tier opponents (South Africa, Australia, and England), exposing a fragile middle-order and death-bowling unit. These losses, all in matches where India held advantageous positions, have generated a feeling of concern surrounding the team’s finishing capabilities. India sits fourth on the points table with four points (2 wins, 3 losses) and a healthy net run rate of +0.52.

New Zealand finds itself in fifth place, also on four points (1 win, 2 losses, 2 washouts). Their campaign has been significantly disrupted by rain, stalling their momentum and pushing them to the brink. The Kiwis must win this India vs New Zealand encounter to secure a top-four position, especially since their final league game is against the undefeated England side.

India eye pivotal win over New Zealand in virtual World Cup Quarterfinal

Key Players (India)

For India, the key will be converting the blistering form of opener Smriti Mandhana and the consistent wickets of all-rounder Deepti Sharma into a complete team performance that doesn't falter under late-game pressure. Deeepti's economical spin and lower-order batting are essential to controlling the middle overs. Smriti has 2 consecutive 50s and doesn't seem to be slowing down at the top. The Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur found much-needed form with a 70 in the last match. Her leadership and ability to finish the game will be under the spotlight.

India Predicted Playing XI

Smriti Mandhana, Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh (WK), Amanjot Kaur, Sneh Rana, Deepti Sharma, Renuka Singh, Kranti Goud.

Key Players (New Zealand)

New Zealand relies heavily on the experience of captain Sophie Devine and the all-round genius of Amelia Kerr to dismantle India's bowling attack. The White Ferns' top run-scorer in the World Cup, Sophie Devine's powerful presence at the top of the order and crucial medium-pace are vital to setting the tone. Kerr is a crucial all-around threat with her leg spin shining through in Indian conditions, proving to be the key to the Kiwi success.

New Zealand Predicted Playing XI

Suzie Bates, Georgia Plimmer, Amelia Kerr, Sophie Devine (C), Brooke Halliday, Maddy Green, Isabella Gaze (WK), Jess Kerr, Lea Tahuhu, Rosemary Mair, Eden Carson.

Match Overview: Date, Time, Venue

Date: Thursday, October 23, 2025

Time: 3:00 PM IST (Local Time)

Venue: DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai

India vs New Zealand ODI Head-to-Head (Women's)

Matches Played: 57, India Won: 22, New Zealand Won: 34, Tied/No Result: 1

DY Patil Stadium Pitch Report

The DY Patil Stadium is renowned for its batting-friendly surfaces, providing consistent bounce and pace. The pitch is generally flat, favouring high-scoring contests, though spinners are expected to play a major role as the match progresses. The venue has a typical Indian surface that is highly conducive to batting. Given the likelihood of heavy dew setting in during the evening, the captain winning the toss may prefer to bowl first to make the most of the conditions with the ball before the surface gets slippery.

Mumbai Weather Report

The weather in Navi Mumbai is predicted to be an extreme challenge for both sides. According to AccuWeather, the match day will see a high temperature of 97 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 36 degrees Celsius) with an oppressive RealFeel of 107 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 42 degrees Celsius). The conditions are forecasted to be hazy and very warm, with the air quality rated as Very Unhealthy. There is also a 55% probability of precipitation with a chance of a thunderstorm in the afternoon, which could lead to an interruption, although a full contest is still expected.