Another high-scoring thriller on cards in Navi Mumbai?

Digital Desk

As India gear up to face Australia in the second semi-final of the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, former West Indies pacer Ian Bishop believes it’s too early to predict what would be a good first-innings score at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.

Speaking to Dainik Bhaskar during JioStar’s media day on Wednesday, Bishop said the actual playing conditions will determine the scoring pattern. “The real picture will only become clear once we see the pitch on the day of the match,” he explained.

Conditions change every day

Bishop pointed out that while the surface has produced big totals recently, conditions can shift quickly. “If the pitch remains the same as the one used for the India–New Zealand match, then a par score could be above 340. But conditions vary daily, so it’s hard to fix a number beforehand,” he said.

He added, “I wouldn’t say teams should aim for 340 or 350, because ultimately, you have to play according to the conditions on that particular day.”

India’s strong record at the venue

India last played at DY Patil Stadium on October 23, when they defeated New Zealand by 53 runs in a rain-affected match. Batting first, India piled up 340 for 3 in 49 overs, and after a revised target under the Duckworth-Lewis method, New Zealand managed 271 for 8 in 44 overs.

Batting-friendly surface expected again

The DY Patil track is traditionally known to favor batters, though spinners and pacers may both find some assistance. Given the conditions, another high-scoring encounter could be on the cards.

With the possibility of rain and dew later in the evening, both captains might prefer to chase after winning the toss, making adaptability and smart decision-making crucial in this knockout clash