ICC World Cup 2025
Harmanpreet KaurIndia vs AustraliaWomens Cricket World Cup

CWC25: Healy Calls India a ‘Real Threat’; Can Kaur’s Team Survive Spin in Visakhapatnam Showdown?

Shivansh Rana | 3 min read | 4 days ago | Oct 12, 2025 01:35 pm IST
CWC25: Healy Calls India a 'Real Threat'; Can Kaur's Team Survive Spin in Visakhapatnam Showdown?

The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 is buzzing, and it’s all about one massive clash. On Sunday, October 12th, Harmanpreet Kaur’s Team India faces a do-or-die battle against the unbeaten defending champions, Australia, led by Alyssa Healy. This isn’t just another game; it’s a high-stakes showdown in a sold-out Visakhapatnam stadium with India’s semi-final hopes hanging in the balance.

Key Takeaways

  • Australia’s captain Alyssa Healy has labeled India a ‘sleeping giant’ and a ‘real threat’ ahead of their crucial match.
  • India’s top-order batting is a major concern, showing a clear vulnerability against left-arm spin.
  • Harmanpreet Kaur’s form is under the spotlight, with scores of just 9, 19, and 21 in the tournament so far.
  • Australia might bring back left-arm spinner Sophie Molineux specifically to target India’s weakness.
  • The match is critical for India’s campaign after a recent loss to South Africa, while Australia remains unbeaten.

A Rivalry That’s Boiling Over

Look, the tension between these two teams is real. You can feel it. Australian skipper Alyssa Healy didn’t mince her words, calling India a “real threat” just days before the match. She even referred to them as a “sleeping giant” of women’s cricket. That’s not just pre-game talk; that’s respect mixed with a clear warning.

And the fans know it. Tickets for this Visakhapatnam encounter were completely sold out, proving that this rivalry has become one of the most anticipated events in the sport. After a tough loss to South Africa on October 9, the pressure is squarely on India to bounce back. A win keeps their dream alive. A loss could be devastating.

The Strategic Chess Match

So, how will this game be won or lost? It might all come down to one thing: spin. India’s top-order batters have shown a worrying weakness against left-arm spinners throughout this World Cup. It’s the chink in their armor, and you can bet Australia has noticed.

The defending champs are currently unbeaten, with two solid wins and one washout. To keep that streak going, they’re reportedly considering a big tactical move. Bringing back left-arm orthodox spinner Sophie Molineux into the playing XI seems like a no-brainer. It’s a direct strategy to exploit India’s Achilles’ heel and put them on the back foot early.

All Eyes on Captain Kaur

And then there’s the question of Harmanpreet Kaur’s own form. We all know what she’s capable of, especially against Australia. But her scores in this tournament so far, 9, 19, and 21, have been modest by her standards. For India to challenge a powerhouse like Australia, they need their captain to fire.

This match is more than just about team strategy; it’s a test of leadership and individual brilliance. Can Kaur shake off her slow start and deliver a captain’s knock when her team needs it the most? Or will Australia’s calculated plans prove too much to handle?

The stage is set for a dramatic confrontation. One team is looking to protect its perfect record, while the other is fighting for survival. Who do you think will come out on top?