India’s campaign at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 came to an end after a six-wicket defeat to Australia in a must-win Group A clash at Lord’s in London on Sunday.
Chasing victory to stay in contention for the semi-finals, the Indian team failed to overcome their long-time rivals and were eliminated from the tournament.
The loss saw India finish third in the Group A standings, behind table-toppers Australia and second-placed South Africa. Earlier in the day, South Africa secured their place in the last four with a victory over Bangladesh at the same venue, leaving India out of the semi-final race.
Australia’s chase got off to the worst possible start as opener Georgia Voll was dismissed off just the second ball. However, Ellyse Perry and Ashleigh Gardner quickly regained control, putting together a match-defining 100-run partnership for the fourth wicket.
Perry led the recovery with a fluent 56 off 38 balls before falling to Shree Charani, while Gardner remained unbeaten on a blistering 53 from just 29 deliveries to steer Australia to victory. Named Player of the Match, Perry credited the partnership for turning the game in Australia’s favour.
Australia completed their Group 1 campaign at the historic Lord’s with a six-wicket victory, securing a place in the semi-finals of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
The win ensured Australia finished at the top of the group and remained unbeaten in the tournament. They will now take on the West Indies in the first semi-final at The Oval on Tuesday.
The second semi-final will feature South Africa against England, with both teams aiming to book their place in the final.
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