As the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 approaches, India and Pakistan are set to clash in a highly anticipated match. The game will take place on Sunday, October 5, at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The match is scheduled to begin at 09:30 GMT.
Match Overview
This group-stage fixture is not just a sporting event; it carries significant emotional weight due to ongoing political tensions. Previous encounters have ignited discussions on sportsmanship, particularly the notable handshake disputes between the two teams.
Handshake Controversy
- The Indian men’s team notably did not shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts during the Asia Cup 2025.
- BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia has indicated that a similar “no handshake” policy could be considered for the women’s match.
- This ongoing controversy adds pressure to the players as they prepare to focus on the game.
Players’ Outlook
Despite external pressures, both teams aim to concentrate on performance. Pakistan’s captain, Fatima Sana, emphasized the need to focus on cricket despite the surrounding noise. Her team’s recent loss to Bangladesh has set the tone for this crucial match.
The last encounter between these teams in a World Cup setting showcased camaraderie, notably during the 2022 tournament in New Zealand, where players from both sides shared moments off the field.
Weather Forecast
Concerns about weather conditions persist, with rain expected in Colombo on match day. Previous matches have faced disruptions due to precipitation, raising questions about the potential impact on the upcoming game.
Head-to-Head Record
Historically, India holds a substantial advantage in women’s ODIs against Pakistan, leading 11-0. Their last World Cup encounter in 2022 was marked by a comfortable victory for India, further highlighting the competitive gap between the teams.
Key Players to Watch
India
- Smriti Mandhana: Recognized as one of the leading batters in women’s cricket, her performance will be crucial for India.
- Deepti Sharma: A valuable all-rounder, her contributions with both bat and ball could significantly influence the match outcome.
Pakistan
- Sidra Amin: A seasoned player, her recent form makes her a key figure in Pakistan’s batting lineup.
- Nashra Sandhu: A key bowler for Pakistan, she has been effective in taking wickets and will aim to disrupt India’s batting order.
Recent Form
India
India enters the match with a World Cup opening victory over Sri Lanka. Their recent performances include mixed results but indicate a return to strong form.
Pakistan
Pakistan’s recent trajectory has been challenging. Following an unbeaten streak in qualifiers, they faced a dramatic loss to Bangladesh, raising stakes for the match against India.
Expected Line-ups
India’s Predicted XI
- Pratika Rawal
- Smriti Mandhana
- Harleen Deol
- Harmanpreet Kaur (captain)
- Jemimah Rodrigues
- Deepti Sharma
- Richa Ghosh (wicketkeeper)
- Amanjot Kaur
- Sneh Rana
- Kranti Goud
- Shree Charani
Pakistan’s Predicted XI
- Muneeba Ali
- Omaima Sohail
- Sidra Amin
- Rameen Shamim
- Aliya Riaz
- Sidra Nawaz (wicketkeeper)
- Fatima Sana (captain)
- Natalia Pervaiz
- Diana Baig
- Nashra Sandhu
- Sadia Iqbal
As anticipation builds for this epic clash, all eyes will be on the women’s teams as they look to make their mark in the World Cup amidst ongoing tensions. The match promises to be much more than a game, with history, rivalry, and the spirit of sportsmanship at stake.
