Colombo: The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 clash between England and Pakistan was abandoned due to persistent rain at the R Premadasa International Stadium, leaving Pakistan with their first point but still at the bottom of the standings. England, however, moved to the top of the table, tied with Australia at seven points from four games.
The match was initially reduced to 31 overs per side after Pakistan chose to bowl first. England struggled against Pakistan’s bowlers, reaching 133/9, with Fatima Sana leading the attack with figures of 4/27. Despite a late recovery led by Charlie Dean and Emily Arlott, England’s innings was stymied by Pakistan’s disciplined bowling.
Pakistan’s chase began positively, reaching 34/0 in under seven overs before the weather intervened again. The rain intensified, forcing officials to call off the match, denying Pakistan a chance to secure a win.
In the first innings, Pakistan’s bowlers dominated from the outset. Diana Baig set the tone by dismissing Tammy Beaumont early, while Fatima Sana dismantled England’s middle order, including the crucial wickets of Nat Sciver-Brunt and Heather Knight.
Sadia Iqbal contributed significantly, taking two wickets and further weakening England’s batting lineup. Rameen Shamim also made an impact by trapping Alice Capsey LBW.
After the rain break, Dean and Arlott’s partnership for England provided some resistance, but their efforts were not enough to prevent the match’s eventual abandonment.
Looking ahead, Pakistan will face New Zealand on October 18, while England will take on India in a key encounter on October 19.