Phoebe Litchfield showcased an outstanding performance in the Women’s World Cup semi-final by scoring a century in just 77 balls against India on October 30 at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai. She joined a select group of batters who have achieved this milestone in Women’s World Cup knockout matches, including notable players like Harmanpreet Kaur, Alyssa Healy, Laura Wolvaardt, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Danni Wyatt-Hodge, and Karen Rolton.
Litchfield reached her century in a remarkable manner by confidently advancing down the pitch to left-arm spinner Sree Charani and elegantly hitting a four over mid-off. Her impressive shot garnered a well-deserved standing ovation from the spectators.
Despite losing her captain Alyssa Healy early in the innings, Litchfield remained composed and steadily built her score. After completing her century, she was handed a lifeline when a catch was dropped, adding to India’s frustration. Litchfield had earlier reached her half-century off 45 deliveries and then accelerated to reach the century quickly.
Although there was a brief scare when she was initially given out caught, a review confirmed it was a bump ball. Undeterred, Litchfield continued her aggressive approach by hitting consecutive sixes off Deepti Sharma after reaching her hundred.
Her explosive innings eventually ended when Amanjot Kaur bowled her for a magnificent 119 off 93 balls, featuring 17 boundaries and three maximums. Litchfield’s dismissal marked a crucial breakthrough for India after she had shared a vital 155-run partnership with Ellyse Perry for the second wicket.
Fans drew comparisons on social media between Litchfield’s century and Travis Head’s performance in the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup final. Head had played a pivotal role by scoring a century off 95 balls and going on to make 137 off 120 deliveries, leading Australia to a six-wicket victory in a successful chase.
The cricketing community and fans lauded Phoebe Litchfield for her remarkable knock, recognizing her talent and contribution to Australia’s strong performance in the semi-final match.