(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Pakistan and India Set for Exciting Women’s World Cup Clash in Colombo
October 5, 2025
Cricket fans are in for another thrilling Pakistan-India encounter — this time at the Women’s World Cup in Colombo. It marks the fourth consecutive Sunday featuring the arch-rivals on the field, though this time, the spotlight shines on the women cricketers.
Unlike the scorching Dubai heat of recent men’s matches, this clash takes place under humid and rainy Sri Lankan skies — but the rivalry remains as fierce as ever.
A Tale of Two Cricketing Worlds
The contrast between the women’s cricket setups in Pakistan and India remains significant.
Indian players benefit from the Women’s Premier League (WPL), where top athletes can earn salaries of up to $400,000. In comparison, many domestic women cricketers in Pakistan still receive monthly retainers below the national minimum wage, though international players earn more through national and global tournaments.
The gap in resources and infrastructure between the two nations continues to be one of the biggest challenges for Pakistan’s women’s cricket.
Pre-Match Build-Up
Pakistan enters the match after a disappointing loss to Bangladesh, while India secured a win against co-hosts Sri Lanka in their opening game. Despite the setback, Pakistan’s captain Fatima remained positive and focused during the pre-match press conference.
“Our main goal is to play our best cricket. Whatever comes in the spirit of the game, we try to maintain that,” Fatima said.
She also recalled the warm camaraderie between players during the previous World Cup in New Zealand, when Indian cricketers playfully interacted with Bismah Maroof’s baby, Fatima — a moment that went viral for all the right reasons.
Rain Could Play a Key Role
With rain predicted in Colombo, weather could once again influence the outcome. A washed-out match might actually favor Pakistan, helping them stay in contention for the top-four semi-final spots.
The pitch, which has remained under covers due to continuous showers, is expected to assist the pacers early on.
Pakistan’s Diana Baig will be a key bowler to watch, while India’s Sneh Rana — currently the second-highest wicket-taker in ODIs this year — will look to make an impact as well.
“Diana is one of our best players — her bowling and fielding both lift the team’s confidence,” said Fatima.
Chasing History
Pakistan has never beaten India in ODI cricket, losing all 11 encounters so far. However, they do have three T20I victories, including a memorable World Cup win in 2012.
“Records are meant to be broken,” Fatima added. “We won’t dwell on the past — we’ll focus on executing our plans for this match.”
As the rain clouds hover over Colombo, the Women in Green will be hoping to turn the weather — and history — in their favor.
