The outcome of the semi final match of Women’s World Cup Cricket between India and Australia on Thursday brought cheer to the Indians as Harmanpreet Kaur’s amazing knock of 171 off 115 balls helped to beat a strong Australian side and steer India into the finals.

Kaur ‘s whirlwind knock which included 20 fours and seven sixes is considered to be one of the greatest ever ODI knocks in women’s cricket. India defeated the Australians by 36 runs to secure a place in the final.

Harmanpreet had earlier played the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) for Sydney Thunders due to which she was familiar with the Australian attack and this worked to her advantage.

India had set a target of 282 for Australia who got off to a terrible start as they lost three wickets inside the opening eight overs. Elyse Villani displayed some impressive hits, but Australia was not able to keep up with the required run rate and were all out for 245 with 11 balls left.

This is the second time India has reached the final of the World Cup after their previous final in 2005. They too experienced a disappointing start when they were down to 101-3 which included the dismissal of their inspirational captain, Mithali Raj.

That is when Harmanpreet Kaur came into the picture and along with all-rounder Deepti Sharma bolstered the innings with a rapid fourth-wicket partnership of 137 to lead India to victory.

India will play England in the finals on Sunday at Lords.