India secured an impressive 88-run victory over Pakistan in their highly anticipated ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 clash held in Colombo. This victory was the platform that demonstrated the might of Team India. It sent them flying to the top of the points table, giving them a hard-fought four points.
The game played out in an exciting way as India scored 249 runs in their 50 overs. Surprisingly, no one advanced beyond the half century in runs scored. Harleen Deol made a significant contribution anchoring the innings with her 45 runs. Alas, she holed out to long-on and in doing so, provided Rameen Shamim with her sole wicket.
The match went into a five-minute stoppage on account of a bizarre cause. Players were forced to leave the pitch for nearly half an hour. Fumigators had to come and deal with a huge fly swarm that briefly interrupted play. This delay further raised the stakes, though India held their cool to the end.
Kranti Goud dazzled on the rubber as an elite bowler. Her figures of 3/20 in ten overs superbly reflected her important role. Her skill with the swinging ball was shown to be almost unsolvable for the Pakistani batters. Alongside Renuka Singh Thakur, who put on a commendable display, Goud’s contributions were crucial in restricting Pakistan’s scoring opportunities.
“In the start of the powerplay, we gave away a lot of runs,” – Fatima Sana
Pakistan’s bowlers struggled to contain India’s scoring. Diana Baig was the best Pakistani bowler, taking four wickets for 69 runs. She accomplished that at a high economy rate. Pakistan spoiled not just one but multiple key run-out chances and committed damaging misfields. These errors would be costly as they found it hard to find the legs to pursue India’s target.
Commenting after the tie, Pakistan captain Sana lamented her side’s fielding mistakes.
“In the death overs, we also gave away some extra runs,” – Fatima Sana
Even in defeat, India’s captain Harmanpreet Kaur spoke highly of her team’s bowling attack and their ability to maintain pressure for the entirety of an innings.
“The spinners also helped to get breakthroughs. We created so many chances, but we dropped a few. In the end, we are happy,” – Kaur
Richa Ghosh was instrumental at the death as India went on to post 158. She remained not out, making 35 runs off 20 balls. Her aggressive batting almost went on to further underscore India’s equilibrium as they ended the innings on a high note.
The victory should give India confidence as they look ahead to their next matches. Next up, they return home to face Honduras in the final round of group matches. Their next test will come from the Springboks on Thursday.
Pakistan have now returned to Colombo, where they will be based for the rest of their matches. They’re up against it in a huge matchup with the defending world champs, Australia, on Wednesday. Both teams are looking to move up the tournament bracket. The transfers that lie ahead are set to bring us the most exciting and competitive cricket we have ever seen.
