There’s something magical about a successful run chase the tension, the timing, and the thrill of watching history being rewritten one boundary at a time. In women’s cricket, these moments aren’t just about numbers on the scoreboard; they’re about courage, composure, and pure belief. Over the years, the Highest Run Chases in Women’s Cricket World Cup history have showcased incredible grit, where batters defied pressure, partnerships blossomed under fire, and records tumbled dramatically. These unforgettable chases remind fans that in cricket, belief can turn impossible targets into iconic triumphs.
The Top 10 Highest Run Chases in Women’s Cricket World Cup History
| Teams | Runs Chased |
| England vs New Zealand (2009) | 167/6 |
| Australia vs India (2017) | 258/4 |
| South Africa vs India (2022) | 275/7 |
| England vs Australia (2017) | 257/7 |
| New Zealand vs Sri Lanka (2013) | 252/6 |
| India vs Pakistan (2009) | 247/3 |
| South Africa vs England (2017) | 246/5 |
| Australia vs West Indies (2013) | 244/6 |
| England vs South Africa (2017) | 240/6 |
| India vs South Africa (2022) | 238/8 |
1 South Africa vs India, 2022 Chased 275/7
In one of the most gripping finishes in Women’s World Cup history, South Africa stunned India in Christchurch (2022) by chasing 275 runs with just three wickets in hand. Laura Wolvaardt’s 80 and Mignon du Preez’s ice-cold 52 anchored the chase, sealing a win that knocked India out of the tournament and became the highest successful run chase ever in Women’s World Cup ODI history.
2 Australia vs India, 2017 Chased 258/4
At Bristol, Australia demonstrated their trademark dominance, hunting down India’s 257 with ease. Meg Lanning and Ellyse Perry combined for a brilliant partnership that made the chase look effortless. This victory cemented Australia’s reputation as the most consistent run-chasing team in women’s ODI cricket.
3 England vs Australia, 2017 Chased 257/7
Just days after Australia’s heroics, England produced their own thriller in Bristol. Led by Tammy Beaumont and Sarah Taylor, England overhauled Australia’s 257 in the final over. The win was a statement of intent that propelled England toward their title run that year.
4 New Zealand vs Sri Lanka, 2013 Chased 252/6
New Zealand’s chase in Cuttack remains one of the most underrated World Cup performances. Amy Satterthwaite’s superb century guided the White Ferns to victory after Sri Lanka set a challenging target of 252. Her timing and shot selection under pressure earned her Player of the Match.
5 England vs New Zealand, 2009 Chased 167/6
Although the target was smaller, the stakes couldn’t have been higher; this was the 2009 World Cup Final. Under Charlotte Edwards’ leadership, England successfully chased 167 to lift the trophy. Claire Taylor’s calm presence and steady knocks turned the match into a historic moment for English cricket.
6 India vs Pakistan, 2009 Chased 247/3
India’s formidable batting line-up made light work of Pakistan’s 247 in this group match. Mithali Raj and Anjum Chopra displayed their class with a flawless partnership, marking one of India’s most comprehensive World Cup chases to date.
7 South Africa vs England, 2017 Chased 246/5
This encounter was a showcase of South Africa’s rising batting power. Chloe Tryon’s explosive innings finished the game in style as they overcame England’s 246. The match announced South Africa as serious contenders on the global stage.
8 Australia vs West Indies, 2013 Chased 244/6
In the final at Mumbai, Australia proved why they’re cricket’s most dominant team. Chasing 244 set by West Indies, Jess Cameron and Rachael Haynes led from the front to deliver a clinical win and the World Cup title.
9 England vs South Africa, 2017 Chased 240/6
One of the tightest matches of the 2017 tournament, England held their nerve to chase 240 and reach the final. Sarah Taylor’s composure under pressure stood out in a contest that swung until the last few overs.
10 India vs South Africa, 2022 Chased 238/8
Before their record-breaking 275 chase, India and South Africa clashed in another thriller where India successfully chased 238. Smriti Mandhana’s stunning century and Harmanpreet Kaur’s support ensured a memorable finish and a reminder of India’s chasing strength.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Unforgettable Run Chases in the Women’s World Cup
Every great run chase in the Women’s World Cup tells a story not just of skill and strategy, but of resilience and heart. These matches remind the world that women’s cricket is no longer about playing safe; it’s about rewriting records, breaking limits, and inspiring a new generation to dream big. As the Women’s World Cup continues to evolve, one thing is sure: the subsequent legendary chase is always just one brave partnership away.
