The ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 semi-final between India and Australia began under a heavy, emotional cloud at DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai. Before a single ball was bowled, both teams stood in respectful silence, heads bowed, as a moment of tribute was observed for 17-year-old Ben Austin, a promising young cricketer whose tragic passing has deeply affected the cricketing community.
Players from India and Australia donned black armbands in honor of Austin, who lost his life after being struck on the neck while batting in the nets. Despite wearing a helmet, he was not protected by a stem guard, the small but crucial piece of gear designed to shield the back of the neck. Austin collapsed immediately and was rushed to Monash Children’s Hospital, but tragically, his injuries proved fatal. The heartbreaking incident draws echoes of the accident that claimed Phil Hughes in 2014, which transformed cricket’s approach to player safety. “The ball hit him in the neck in a similar accident that Phil Hughes suffered ten years ago,” confirmed Cricket Victoria CEO Nick Cummins.
🚨 Toss 🚨#TeamIndia have been asked to bowl first.
— BCCI Women (@BCCIWomen) October 30, 2025
Updates ▶️ https://t.co/ou9H5gNDPT#WomenInBlue | #CWC25 | #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/QTzTo1COah
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Amid this somber backdrop, the high-stakes semi-final unfolded in front of a packed DY Patil crowd. Australia’s Alyssa Healy, leading the defending champions, won the toss and chose to bat first, backing her team’s 15-match unbeaten streak in World Cup play. Yet history looms large: the last time Australia lost a World Cup knockout game, it was to India in the 2018 ODI semi-final – a fact that adds an extra layer of intrigue and hope for the Women in Blue.
For India, this match carries more than just World Cup progression. The Women in Blue have faced a challenging tournament, but a win here would mark a defining moment in their campaign, showcasing resilience, talent, and the ability to rise to the occasion against the mighty Australian side.
As cricket pays tribute to a fallen young talent, the semi-final promises a compelling mix of emotion, intensity, and world-class action. Fans will be watching closely, not just for the game, but for the powerful reminder of the sport’s fragility and the spirit of those who play it.
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