Colombo, October 6(HS): In a highly anticipated ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 group stage clash at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Sunday, India’s women’s cricket team secured a commanding 88-run win over archrivals Pakistan. India posted a competitive total of 247 on a challenging pitch, then bowled Pakistan out for 159, extending their perfect ODI record against Pakistan to 12-0.

India captain Harmanpreet Kaur praised the bowling unit for setting the tone: “Our bowling was great. Kranti Gaud bowled really well, outstanding, and Renuka Singh supported getting crucial breakthroughs,” she said during the post-match presentation.

Kaur also acknowledged the batting challenges on the slow pitch, highlighting Richa Ghosh’s vital quickfire 30 runs towards the end of the innings as pivotal. “It wasn’t an easy pitch; we wanted to bat longer and keep wickets in hand. Richa batted really well,” Kaur explained.

Pakistan’s innings faltered early, with key top-order wickets falling quickly. Sidra Amin stood out with a fighting 81, but the team fell short despite her efforts. Pakistan captain Fatima Sana called for greater batting consistency and praised Amin’s resilience, noting Pakistan’s need for longer partnerships and adaptability in the tournament’s next stages.

Kaur expressed optimism about the team’s momentum heading into upcoming matches: “We’re happy to have won and want to carry this momentum. We know how pitches play back home in India and will plan our combinations accordingly.”

India will next face South Africa on October 9 in Visakhapatnam, followed by a clash with defending champions Australia.

Throughout the match, India adhered to a no-handshake policy with Pakistan, continuing a precedent set recently in men’s Asia Cup encounters—reflecting ongoing rival tensions despite the sport’s spirit.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar