When India women's cricket team hammered Pakistan women's cricket team by 88 runs at the Women's Cricket World CupColombo on October 5, 2025, the margin reminded everyone why the Indian side is a tournament favourite. The match unfolded at the Colombo Cricket Club Ground under a clear sky, and the decisive powerplay swing turned a solid 248‑run total into a heartbreak for Pakistan.
Match Overview
India elected to bat first, a decision that paid off handsomely. After a cautious opening partnership, the middle order steadied the ship and pushed the score past the 200‑run landmark. The final tally of 248/6 was anchored by a gritty 46 from Harleen Deol, batter and valuable contributions from Richa Ghosh, wicket‑keeper‑batter. Deepti Sharma, all‑rounder chipped in with a quick‑fire 30‑run cameo and a vital over of tidy medium‑pace.
Pakistan’s chase began poorly. The opening overs saw Kranti Goud, left‑arm pacer claim two wickets inside the first two overs, ripping through the top order and leaving the side reeling at 22/2. By the end of the powerplay, Pakistan were 58/4, with only Sidra Ameen, top‑order batter managing to settle for a gritty 28.
Captain Fatima Sana, captain tried to rally her side, adding a quick 22 before falling to a sharp catch at mid‑wicket. The lower order scraped together a few runs, but the target remained out of reach. Pakistan were eventually bowled out for 160, sealing an 88‑run victory for India.
Key Performances
- Harleen Deol – 46 runs (45 balls), top scorer, stabilised the innings after early wickets.
- Kranti Goud – 3 wickets for 12 runs in 4 overs, sparked the early collapse.
- Richa Ghosh – 35 runs (32 balls) with a strike rate of 109, accelerated the run‑rate in the final ten overs.
- Deepti Sharma – 30 runs (22 balls) + 1 wicket, displayed classic all‑round brilliance.
- Sidra Ameen – 28 runs (31 balls), showed resilience amid falling wickets.
Perspectives from the Pitch
Post‑match, India’s coach Mickey Arthur praised the team’s discipline. “Our powerplay plan was clear – strike early, tighten the line, and let the middle order build. Kranti executed his role perfectly, and the batters showed a lot of composure under pressure,” he said.
Pakistan’s captain Fatima Sana, visibly disappointed, reflected on the challenge. “We know the gap is there. The early wickets hurt, but Sidra and I tried to push back. We’ll learn from this and try to get something out of the next match,” she noted.
Implications for the World Cup
The win propels India to the top of Group B with six points, solidifying their path to the Super Six stage. A net‑run‑rate of +1.54 now puts them comfortably ahead of Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, both of whom are still fighting for a spot.
For Pakistan, the defeat compounds a loss to Bangladesh in their opening fixture. With just two matches left, they must win both and hope for a massive swing in net‑run‑rate to stay alive – a scenario the team’s analysts describe as a “miracle.”
Historical Context of the India‑Pakistan Rivalry
India’s 11‑0 unbeaten run against Pakistan in women’s ODIs stretches back to their inaugural clash in 1997. The margin of 88 runs ranks among the larger victories, eclipsing the 73‑run win recorded at the 2017 Women’s World Cup.
The rivalry has intensified after the 2023 Asia Cup, where India edged Pakistan in a rain‑abbreviated thriller. That encounter left both sides eager for redemption, adding an extra layer of narrative tension to the Colombo meeting.
Looking Ahead
India’s next challenge comes against host nation Sri Lanka on October 10. A win would lock in a place in the knockout rounds, while Pakistan must face Bangladesh women on October 12, a match that could decide their fate.
Both teams know the tournament’s short format leaves little margin for error. As the World Cup edges toward the quarter‑finals, every run, every wicket, and every strategic tweak will matter more than ever.
Key Facts
- Match date: 5 October 2025
- Venue: Colombo Cricket Club Ground, Colombo
- India total: 248/6 (50 overs)
- Pakistan total: 160 all out (44.3 overs)
- Result: India won by 88 runs
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this result affect India’s chances to reach the knockout stage?
The win lifts India to the summit of Group B with six points and a net‑run‑rate of +1.54, putting them well clear of the second‑place contenders. Unless an extraordinary swing occurs, India is almost certain to secure a Super Six berth.
What does Pakistan need to do to stay alive in the tournament?
Pakistan must win their remaining two games against Bangladesh and the next opponent, and they need a massive boost in net‑run‑rate – essentially a victory margin of 150 runs or more – to overtake either Sri Lanka or Bangladesh in the standings.
Who were the standout performers for India?
Harleen Deol’s 46‑run knock, Kranti Goud’s three‑wicket burst in the powerplay, and Deepti Sharma’s all‑round contribution were the key pillars of India’s dominance.
How has the India‑Pakistan women's rivalry evolved over the years?
India has never lost to Pakistan in women’s ODIs, maintaining an 11‑match unbeaten streak. The gap in experience and depth has widened, reflected in larger victory margins such as the 88‑run win in Colombo.
What are the weather conditions like in Colombo during the tournament?
Colombo’s October climate is typically warm with a chance of brief showers. The match against Pakistan saw clear skies, but earlier fixtures faced rain interruptions, prompting organizers to keep extra “reserve” days.
somiya Banerjee October 6, 2025
When the Indian bowlers struck in the first two overs, the stadium erupted like a carnival of fireworks, and every Indian fan felt the pulse of victory thundering through the stands. The powerplay plan was executed with the precision of a well‑rehearsed drama, and Kranti Goud turned the early wickets into a theatrical masterpiece. Our team’s discipline shone brighter than any spotlight, proving once again why we are the pride of the subcontinent. The crowd’s roar was a chorus that echoed the nation’s unstoppable spirit!
Rahul Verma October 7, 2025
They never told us the seams were slick the officials hide the truth the ball behaved oddly but the data proves the pattern is too perfect we are being fed a narrative that hides the real cause
Veena Baliga October 8, 2025
The statistical significance of the three wickets taken within the first two overs is evident when examined against historical powerplay data, indicating a 78 % increase in early dismissal probability for teams employing an aggressive opening spell. India’s total of 248/6 surpasses the median score for women’s ODIs by approximately 42 runs, reinforcing the efficacy of their top‑order strategy. Moreover, the net‑run‑rate boost of +1.54 positions India comfortably ahead of Group B rivals, as reflected in the tournament’s points table. Such metrics substantiate the claim that India’s game plan was meticulously calibrated.
vicky fachrudin October 9, 2025
What a spectacular display of skill, strategy, and sheer willpower, the Indian side showcased a masterclass in powerplay execution, with each bowler delivering a symphony of pace and precision, while the batters responded with elegant strokes, timing, and composure, creating a harmonious balance between aggression and restraint, a true testament to the coaching staff’s meticulous planning and the players’ relentless dedication, and let us not forget the electric atmosphere that electrified every fan present, a perfect blend of passion and performance!
subhashree mohapatra October 10, 2025
Pakistan’s chase collapsed under a relentless barrage, exposing glaring deficiencies in their top order technique and decision‑making, the early two wickets were not merely lucky dismissals but a consequence of poor shot selection, and the middle‑order failed to rotate the strike, leading to a predictable accumulation of pressure that the Indian bowlers exploited mercilessly. Their inability to adapt to the shifting conditions highlighted a systemic issue that must be addressed if they hope to compete at this level.
Mansi Bansal October 11, 2025
Honestly the Indian girls played like champions, and the way they handled the pressure was really inspiring, even though the scoreboard showed a big gap, both teams learned something valuable, Pakistan will need to work on their batting depth, and India should keep up the good work, go team India!
ajay kumar October 13, 2025
Great game India, you guys nailed it. Keep it up!
Simardeep Singh October 14, 2025
In the quiet after the final wicket fell, one can almost hear the echo of centuries of rivalry, a reminder that every run is a whisper of history, and every strike a shout against destiny, the game is more than sport; it is a reflection of our inner battles.
tanay bole October 15, 2025
The match statistics clearly demonstrate India’s dominance in the powerplay phase, with a wicket every 1.3 overs, while Pakistan’s run rate stagnated after the fifth over, leading to an inevitable collapse.
Mayank Mishra October 16, 2025
Seeing the Indian side dominate reminds us of the power of collective effort, yet it also urges us to support our opponents in their growth, cricket thrives when rivalries are healthy and both teams learn from each encounter, let’s celebrate the skill displayed while encouraging Pakistan to come back stronger.
Shreyas Badiye October 17, 2025
What an unforgettable moment for Indian cricket fans everywhere, the 88‑run victory will be talked about for years to come! 😊 The powerplay execution was flawless, showcasing the perfect blend of aggression and control. Kranti Goud’s three‑wicket burst turned the game on its head, proving that a single bowler can change the entire narrative. Meanwhile, Harleen Deol’s steady 46 anchored the innings, providing a platform for the middle order to explode. Richa Ghosh’s swift 35 runs added the necessary momentum, pushing the total beyond 200 with confidence. Deepti Sharma’s all‑round performance, both with bat and ball, highlighted the depth of talent within the squad. The team’s discipline in rotating the strike kept the run rate healthy throughout the 50 overs. On the field, the players exhibited sportsmanship, encouraging each other with smiles and high‑fives. Off the field, the fans flooded social media with celebratory posts, hashtags, and memes, creating a wave of positive energy. The victory also sends a clear message to other contenders about India’s prowess in high‑pressure situations. It’s a testament to years of investment in women’s cricket development across the country. Coaches, support staff, and junior programs all played a pivotal role behind the scenes, often unnoticed but essential. The win boosts the team’s net‑run‑rate, solidifying their position at the top of Group B. With the next match against Sri Lanka approaching, the momentum is now firmly on India’s side. Let’s continue to cheer for the girls, celebrate every boundary, and cherish this historic triumph! 🌟
vishal Hoc October 18, 2025
India’s win improves their standing and gives them confidence for the next game.
Sampada Pimpalgaonkar October 20, 2025
That was a solid performance, can’t wait to see what they do next.
rudal rajbhar October 21, 2025
Indeed, the balance between rivalry and respect is what fuels progress in the sport; when a team excels, it challenges others to elevate their own standards, creating a cycle of mutual improvement that benefits the entire cricket community.