India vs Pakistan Women’s World Cup 2025 Match Highlights
In a much-anticipated India vs Pakistan Women’s World Cup 2025 encounter, India delivered a composed, all-round performance to register a commanding win over Pakistan on Sunday. Led by a brilliant spell from Kranti Gaud, who picked up three crucial wickets, India successfully defended their total of 247 and extended their unbeaten record against Pakistan in World Cup history.
Early Momentum and Mid-Innings Collapse
India’s innings began on a promising note after Pakistan won the toss and elected to field. Openers Smriti Mandhana (23) and Pratika Rawal (31) provided a solid start, adding 48 runs for the first wicket. However, the momentum slowed once both openers fell in quick succession. Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur’s dismissal added to India’s troubles, leaving the side in a tight spot at the halfway mark.
The middle order found it difficult to rotate strike on the slow surface, as Pakistan’s bowlers maintained disciplined lines. But just when India looked in danger of folding under pressure, Richa Ghosh stepped up with a vital knock of 35 runs, injecting life into the innings. Her late surge, supported by cameos from Deepti Sharma and Sneh Rana, guided India to a respectable total of 247 all out.
Kranti Gaud Turns the Match for India
Defending 247, India’s bowlers came out with intent and precision. The standout performer was Kranti Gaud, who bowled a remarkable spell to claim three key wickets, including that of Pakistan captain Fatima Sana. Her control, variation, and accuracy disrupted Pakistan’s rhythm and turned the contest decisively in India’s favor.
Supported by Renuka Singh Thakur and Deepti Sharma, India’s bowling attack maintained steady pressure, forcing Pakistan batters into mistakes. Fielding efforts were equally sharp — Harleen Deol’s athletic stop at cover and Jemimah Rodrigues’s direct hit added to Pakistan’s woes.
No Handshake Continues Between Captains
Off the field, the India vs Pakistan Women’s World Cup 2025 clash drew attention for another reason — the continuation of the “no-handshake” stance. Following the toss, both captains refrained from exchanging pleasantries, echoing the recent protocol adopted by the Indian men’s team during the Asia Cup 2025. The gesture, or lack thereof, has sparked discussions across social media, adding an extra layer of tension to an already high-voltage rivalry.
Team Changes and Match Context
Both sides made a change from their previous matches. For Pakistan, Sadaf Shamas replaced Omaima Sohail, while India brought in Renuka Singh Thakur for Amanjot Kaur, who missed the match due to illness.
The victory not only strengthens India’s position in the tournament standings but also underlines their dominance over Pakistan in ICC events. With a balanced squad and renewed confidence, India now look forward to their next group-stage fixture.
Match Summary
India Women: 247 all out (Richa Ghosh 35, Pratika Rawal 31, Smriti Mandhana 23)
Pakistan Women: Chasing 248 – Kranti Gaud 3 wickets, Renuka Singh Thakur 2 wickets
Final Word
The India vs Pakistan Women’s World Cup 2025 clash once again lived up to its reputation for intensity and drama. Kranti Gaud’s bowling brilliance, Richa Ghosh’s crucial cameo, and India’s collective discipline ensured a memorable victory. With this performance, India not only extended their winning streak against Pakistan but also sent a strong statement of intent for the rest of the tournament.
