Colombo: Pakistan’s bowlers made significant inroads into India’s batting lineup during their ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 match, with Nashra Sandhu and Diana Baig leading the charge. India found themselves struggling after losing quick wickets, including that of Jemimah Rodrigues, who was dismissed LBW following a successful review.

Rodrigues’ dismissal marked a milestone for Sandhu, who equaled the record for the most wickets taken by a Pakistani bowler in the Women’s World Cup. She shares this achievement with former captain Sana Mir.

Before Rodrigues’ exit, Harleen Deol was caught at long on by Sandhu off Rameen Shamim’s bowling. This added to India’s woes after they had already lost captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who was caught behind off a delivery bowled by Diana Baig.

Kaur had previously stabilized the innings alongside Harleen Deol after openers Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal were dismissed. Mandhana, after a 48-run partnership with Rawal, was trapped LBW by Fatima Sana. Shortly thereafter, Sadia Iqbal dismissed Rawal with a sharply angled delivery.

The match began with Pakistan opting to bowl first after winning the toss. This decision came after contrasting results for the two teams in their opening games; India had secured a victory against Sri Lanka, while Pakistan was defeated by Bangladesh.

Both sides made changes to their playing XIs from their previous matches. India included Renuka Singh Thakur, replacing Amanjot Kaur, while Pakistan brought in Sadaf Shamas for Omaima Sohail.

As the match unfolds, the historical rivalry continues with India having the upper hand in past encounters, winning all eleven previous matches against Pakistan in this format.