Women's T20 World Cup: India ready for likely semifinal against Australia, says Harmanpreet Kaur

five-run win over Ireland in their rain-hit last group game, which has raised the confidence of skipper Harmanpreet Kaur leading up to a likely semifinal against defending champoins Australia. The Indian team finished second in Group 2 to book a spot in the semis, with current group leaders England as the other team to reach the last-four stage. England have a game against Pakistan left to play, but are likely to remain at the top of the group irrespective of the result in that game because of their superior net run-rate. Australia have already won Group 1, so are almost certain to play India as runners-up in Group One in the semi-finals.

Read AlsoWomen's T20 World Cup, India vs Ireland Highlights: Smriti Mandhana shines as India beat Ireland by 5 runs (DLS) to qualify for semis

Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana scored a career-best 87 as India qualified for the semi-finals of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup on Monday after registering a five-run victory, via DLS method, over Ireland in a rain-affected match at St George's Park in Gqeberha. With the victory, India finished the

India captain Harmanpreet said India had gained confidence from having played Australia in a series in India last season, despite only winning one game -- and that was on a super over.She pointed out that all teams, including champion sides like Australia, were under pressure in World Cup games."The brand of cricket we played (against Australia) gave us a lot of confidence," said Kaur. "We have a fair idea of how we have to go about the next game and we will make our plans accordingly."Smriti Mandhana hit a T20 international career-best 87 as India made 155 for six. Ireland were with 54 for two from 8.2 overs, with Gaby Lewis 32 not out, when rain ended