In an intense clash at Colombo, India gave Pakistan a target of 248 runs in the ongoing Women’s ODI World Cup 2025. Pakistan won the toss and chose to bowl first, putting India on the back foot early. However, the Indian side managed to post a competitive total of 247 runs in 50 overs before being bowled out.
Harleen Deol top-scores for India
India’s batting was led by Harleen Deol, who played a composed innings of 46 runs, anchoring the middle order. Jemimah Rodrigues added 32 runs, while Pratika Rawal contributed 31 to keep the scoreboard ticking. The real spark came from Richa Ghosh, who smashed an unbeaten 35 runs off just 20 balls, guiding India to a respectable total after a few early wickets.
Pakistan’s bowling attack shines
Pakistan’s bowlers displayed sharp discipline throughout the innings. Diana Baig stood out with a brilliant four-wicket haul, breaking India’s momentum at crucial moments. Captain Fatima Sana and Sadia Iqbal supported her well, claiming two wickets each. Their tight bowling in the middle overs ensured India could not accelerate too much despite a solid start.
Controversy over the toss decision
The match took an unexpected turn during the toss. Due to a referee’s error, India reportedly lost the toss unfairly. Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur had flipped the coin, which landed on heads, while Pakistan’s Fatima Sana called tails. However, South African match referee Shandre Fritz mistakenly interpreted the call and declared Pakistan as the toss winner. The confusion sparked debate among fans and experts, questioning the officiating standards.
Sportsmanship questioned after toss
Adding to the tension, Harmanpreet Kaur refused to shake hands with Fatima Sana after the toss. This moment reminded fans of a similar incident in the Asia Cup, where Indian men’s captain Suryakumar Yadav had not shaken hands with Pakistan’s skipper Salman Agha. In that event, India had also declined to receive the trophy from PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi, returning home without it despite winning the title.
Also read: India vs Pakistan, Women’s World Cup 2025: Pakistan Elect to Bowl as India Look to Extend Dominance
India-Pakistan rivalry intensifies
This is the fourth consecutive Sunday that India and Pakistan have faced each other in international tournaments. The previous clashes on September 14, 21, and 28 all ended in India’s favor, heightening the anticipation for this encounter. The rivalry, already intense, has added layers of drama and passion with every new meeting.
Playing XI for both teams
India: Harmanpreet Kaur (Captain), Smriti Mandhana, Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, Pratika Rawal, Richa Ghosh (Wicketkeeper), Deepti Sharma, Renuka Singh Thakur, Sneh Rana, Kranti Goud, and Shri Charani.
Pakistan: Fatima Sana (Captain), Muneeba Ali, Sidra Ameen, Alia Riaz, Sidra Nawaz (Wicketkeeper), Natalia Parvez, Ramin Shamim, Nashra Sandhu, Diana Baig, Sadia Iqbal, and Sadaf Shamas.
As the match progresses, all eyes are on Pakistan’s chase. With India giving Pakistan a target of 248 runs, the battle promises to be a thrilling contest between bat and ball in Colombo.
