India vs Pakistan Women’s World Cup Highlights: A commanding 88-run win
The much-anticipated clash in Colombo delivered a one-sided contest as India extended their dominance over Pakistan in women’s ODIs, sealing an 88-run victory to register their 12th consecutive win against their neighbours. In a match that showcased India’s depth and discipline, Kranti Gaud was named Player of the Match for her economical spell of 3/20 in ten overs, helping India defend a total of 247/7.
India’s innings: a solid platform and late flourish
India’s decision to bat first paid off, with the team posting a competitive 247/7 in 50 overs. While Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana provided purposeful starts, it was Gaud’s support with the bat that gave India the late momentum. The chase of a sizable target never truly felt like a threat for the Indian bowlers, who kept Pakistan on a tight leash throughout the innings.
Player of the Match: Kranti Gaud’s all-around impact
Kranti Gaud’s spell of 3/20 from ten overs anchored India’s bowling effort. She also contributed in the field and played a key role in strangling the Pakistan chase. “Feeling really good that I’m the Player of the Match in a World Cup match,” Gaud said at the presentation. The moment was personal for her as she explained the pride her village felt watching on the LED screens. Her captaincy and controlled line-and-length bowling under pressure were crucial as Pakistan battled to stall the early Indian dominance.
Key dismissals and turning points
Deepti Sharma, India’s left-arm orthodox spinner, produced the crucial late strikes, including the pivotal wicket of Rameen Shamim for a golden duck. Sharma’s three-wicket haul ensured Pakistan’s chase never found the necessary rhythm. The dismissal of Shamim was a reminder of India’s tactical planning and fielding sharpness, with Sharma playing a central role in stifling the required run-rate throughout the middle overs.
Pakistan’s chase: arduous grind as India’s bowlers dominate
Pakistan were bundled out for 159 in 43 overs, chasing 248, with pressure building from the start as India’s bowlers hit timely lengths. Sidra Amin led the resistance with a 64-ball 64 before losing partners and none of the Pakistan batswomen could sustain a big score. The required run-rate continually climbed, forcing Pakistan to take risky shots and leaving little room for a counter-attack. The fielding side was equally efficient, as India’s fielders backed up excellent bowling with sharp ground fielding.
Match impact and the larger picture
With this win, India not only cemented their dominance over Pakistan but also climbed to the top of the points table in the World Cup standings. The team’s performance underscored their consistency across departments—from the bowling unit’s restraint to the batters’ ability to convert starts into substantial totals. Harmanpreet Kaur’s leadership and strategic use of the spinners, including Deepti Sharma’s pivotal spell, demonstrated India’s depth and the balance required in a world championship campaign.
Talking points and what lies ahead
Kranti Gaud’s Player of the Match accolade will boost confidence for India as they navigate the rest of the tournament. For Pakistan, the focus will shift to consolidating batting partnerships and building a steadier chase against top-ranked teams. The ongoing World Cup continues to spotlight emerging talents and the evolving tactics of women’s ODI cricket, with both sides eager to push their campaigns forward.
Conclusion: India’s 12th straight win over Pakistan
In a match that reaffirmed India’s superiority, Harmanpreet Kaur’s side demonstrated why they remain a force in women’s cricket. As the tournament progresses, the team will aim to extend this remarkable head-to-head record and climb further on the global stage, while Pakistan analyses lessons from this defeat to mount a more resilient challenge in future fixtures.
