India beat New Zealand by 53 runs (DLS method) to end their run of three consecutive defeats and secure a spot in the semi-finals.
Put in to bat at Navi Mumbai, the hosts hit their highest ever World Cup score of 340 for three from 49 overs thanks to 122 from Pratika Rawal and 109 from Smriti Mandhana.
The pair shared an opening stand of 212 in 33.2 overs before Jemimah Rodrigues added late acceleration with an unbeaten 76 off 55 balls.
In reply New Zealand made 271 for eight from 44 overs with Brooke Halliday hitting 81 and Isabella Gaze finishing on 65 not out.
The result means India are guaranteed a top-four spot even if they lose their final group match against Bangladesh on Sunday.
“It is a big relief qualifying for the knockouts,” said Mandhana, who was named player of the match. “The last three games were really tough – we played good cricket, but we did not win. Pratika deserves this award as much as I do and I am a little surprised. She is a good anchor and allows me to play my natural game.
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