Anticipation Builds for India-Pakistan Clash in ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025

Who: India vs Pakistan
What: ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025
When: Sunday, October 5 at 09:30 GMT
Where: R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, Sri Lanka
How to follow: Al Jazeera Sport will provide live coverage starting at 06:30 GMT.

As the cricketing world turns its gaze to Colombo, the upcoming match between India and Pakistan in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 is set to be more than just a sporting event. It is a clash steeped in historical rivalry, political undertones, and the hopes of millions. Scheduled for October 5, this match promises to be a focal point of attention, not only for cricket fans but also for those observing the complex relationship between these two South Asian neighbors.

Political Tensions Loom Over the Match

The backdrop of this highly anticipated fixture is marred by ongoing political tensions between India and Pakistan. The cricketing rivalry, which has often mirrored the geopolitical landscape, is expected to be a topic of discussion before and after the match. The captains’ interactions during the pre-match coin toss and post-match acknowledgments will be scrutinized, especially in light of the recent Asia Cup 2025, where Indian players notably refrained from shaking hands with their Pakistani counterparts.

Devajit Saikia, Secretary of the Board for Control of Cricket in India (BCCI), hinted at the possibility of a similar “no handshake” policy for the women’s match. “I cannot forecast anything, but our relationship with that particular hostile country is the same. There is no change in the last week,” he stated in an interview with the BBC’s Stumped podcast.

Focus on the Game

Despite the surrounding controversies, both teams are keen to shift the focus back to cricket. Pakistan’s captain, Fatima Sana, emphasized the importance of concentrating on the game itself. “We know what’s happening around us, but we try to stay focused on the game because the World Cup is an event every player waits for,” she remarked.

The last encounter between these two teams at the Women’s World Cup in 2022 showcased a different narrative, where players from both sides shared moments of camaraderie off the field. This included a heartwarming interaction involving then-Pakistan captain Bismah Maroof and Indian players, who were seen enjoying time with her infant daughter. Such moments of unity are often overshadowed by the competitive spirit that defines their matches.

High Stakes and Global Attention

The upcoming match is not just another game; it is a high-pressure fixture that will attract global attention. “The whole world will be watching,” Sana acknowledged, highlighting the significance of the match. The players are aware of the expectations and the weight of history that accompanies an India-Pakistan clash.

Both teams are looking to establish their footing in the tournament. India, having secured a victory against Sri Lanka in their opening match, will aim to maintain their momentum. Conversely, Pakistan is looking to bounce back after a disappointing loss to Bangladesh, making this match crucial for their campaign.

Historical Context: A Rivalry Like No Other

The rivalry between India and Pakistan in cricket is one of the most intense in the sport’s history. In women’s One Day Internationals (ODIs), India holds an unblemished record against Pakistan, winning all 11 encounters to date. The last time Pakistan triumphed over India was during the T20 Women’s Asia Cup in 2022, a reminder of the competitive spirit that still exists.

Historically, matches between these two nations have transcended the sport itself, often serving as a platform for broader social and political discussions. The emotional investment from fans on both sides adds layers of complexity to what is already a high-stakes sporting event.

Weather Woes: Rain Threatens Play

As if the political and emotional stakes weren’t enough, the weather in Colombo poses an additional challenge. Forecasts indicate the possibility of rain, particularly in the early hours of Sunday. The R Premadasa Stadium has already seen disruptions due to weather, with a recent match between Sri Lanka and Australia being abandoned without a ball being bowled. This uncertainty adds another layer of tension to an already charged atmosphere.

Key Players to Watch

India

• Smriti Mandhana: Regarded as one of the finest limited-overs batters in women’s cricket, Mandhana has been in exceptional form, leading the ODI rankings and scoring four centuries in 2025 alone. Her performance will be crucial for India’s success.

• Deepti Sharma: An all-rounder who poses a dual threat with both bat and ball, Sharma has previously excelled against Pakistan. Her ability to take wickets and score runs will be vital in this high-pressure match.

Pakistan

• Sidra Amin: Recently becoming Pakistan’s top ODI century-maker, Amin enters this match in good form and is expected to be a key player in Pakistan’s batting lineup.

• Nashra Sandhu: As Pakistan’s leading spin option, Sandhu has been instrumental in the team’s bowling attack. Her ability to take wickets will be crucial against a formidable Indian batting order.

Recent Form: A Tale of Two Teams

India comes into this match with a mixed bag of results, having lost a home series but rebounding with a win against Sri Lanka. Their last five ODIs reflect a pattern of inconsistency, but they seem to have found their footing just in time for this crucial encounter.

Conversely, Pakistan’s form has dipped following a strong showing in the World Cup qualifiers. After a home series loss to South Africa and a disappointing start to the World Cup, they are eager to regain their momentum.

Conclusion

As the clock ticks down to the highly anticipated India-Pakistan clash in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, the stakes are higher than ever. With political tensions, weather uncertainties, and the weight of history looming large, both teams are determined to focus on the game. Cricket fans around the world will be watching closely, hoping for a match that not only showcases athletic prowess but also the spirit of sportsmanship that can transcend rivalry.