In high stakes ICC Women’s World cup 2025 group stage clash at Colombo ‘s R. Premadasa Stadium on Sunday the India Women’s cricket team produced a commanding performance defeating Pakistan Women by 88 runs . While India ‘s innings were marked by crucial contributions from their middle order , Pakistan’s Sidra Amin shone with a valiant Knock standing tall amid a batting collapse .
India’s Middle Order Steers the ship
After winning the toss , Pakistan opted to field first . The innings started on a shaky note with opener Smriti Mandhana trapped LBW by Fatima Sana for 23 . Pratika Rawal added 31 before being bowled by Sadia Iqbal . India captain Harmanpreet Kaur could mange only 19 caught behind by Sidra Nawaz off Diana Baig leaving India at 106/3 . Jemimah Rodrigues contributed 32 runs but is was Harleen Deol’s 46, studded with four boundaries and a six that helped India regain the momentum
Late contributions from Sneha Rana (20) and an unbeaten 35 runs by Richa Ghosh featuring two sixes powered the final overs guiding India to a competitive total of 247 all out.
Diana Baig Shines with the ball
For Pakistan Diana Baig was the standout performer with the ball finishing with the 4/69 and achieving her 100th international wicket across formats . Fatima Sana (2/38) and Sadia Iqbal (2/47) also chipped in but India’s deep batting lineup ensured a challenging target for their arch rivals .
Pakistan Collapse Despite Sidra’s Resistance
Chasing 248, Pakistan ‘s innings began in disarray as they lost three wickets for just 10 runs . The early dismissals of Muneeba Ali (2) , Sadaf Shamas (6) and Aliya Riaz (2) put immediate pressure on batting unit . Amid the chaos Sidra Amin stood tall . Displaying remarkable patience and precision , She crafted a fluent 81 off 89 balls laced with nine boundaries and a six . Alongside Natalia Parvaiz (33) , Sidra stitched together 69 run stand Pakistan ‘s only meaningful partnership of the match .
However once Natalia was dismissed , Pakistan’s innings unraveled rapidly . The lower order failed to offer resistance and the team was eventually bowled out for 159 in 43 overs .
India’s Bowling Unit Seals the Win
India ‘s blowers maintained relentless pressure throughout . Kranti Gaud (3/20) was exceptional with her pace and accuracy earning the player of the match award . Deepti Sharma (3/45) and Sneha Rana (2/38) provided crucial breakthroughs , ensuring Pakistan never found momentum.
Looking Ahead
For Pakistan , the defeat marks their second consecutive loss in the tournament , following their opening defeat to Bangladesh . They now face defending champions Australia Women on October 8 a must win game to stay in contention
India on the other hand , continue their winning run combining discipline and in both departments , while Sidra Amin’s gallant effort lit up Pakistan’s innings it couldn’t prevent another disappointing result for her side .
Also Read: IND vs PAK: Deepti Sharma’s Clinical Performance Outclasses Pakistan