The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 warm-up matches began with a mix of thrilling cricket and frustrating weather delays on Day 1. While England outclassed India in Bengaluru, India A secured an impressive win over New Zealand in Colombo. However, rain played spoilsport in the Bangladesh–South Africa and Sri Lanka–Pakistan fixtures, forcing abandonments.
Sciver-Brunt’s Century Powers England Past India
England sent a strong message ahead of the World Cup by thrashing hosts India by 152 runs. Batting first, the visitors piled up 339/9, courtesy of a captain’s knock from Nat Sciver-Brunt (122 off 105, 13 fours, 2 sixes). She was well supported by Emma Lamb (81 off 59), whose counterattacking innings ensured England crossed the 300 mark with ease.
India’s chase started brightly with Uma Chetry (45) and Jemimah Rodrigues (66) showing resistance, but a middle-order collapse derailed their pursuit. The home side were bowled out well short, handing England a statement victory. India will now look to bounce back against New Zealand in their second warm-up clash on September 27.
Shafali, Mamatha Lead India A Past New Zealand
In Colombo, India A produced a spirited performance to defeat New Zealand via the DLS method. The White Ferns recovered from early trouble thanks to Izzy Gaze’s unbeaten 101, steering them to 273/9 in 50 overs.
India A’s chase was spearheaded by Shafali Verma (70 off 49), who played a blazing knock at the top. Later, Mamatha Madiwala (56)* anchored the innings before rain halted proceedings with India A on 226/6 in 39.3 overs, enough to secure victory by the DLS method. New Zealand face India in their next warm-up on September 27.
Rain Ruins Bangladesh–South Africa Contest
In Bengaluru, Bangladesh pacer Marufa Akter lit up the morning with a fiery spell, dismissing Laura Wolvaardt with the very first ball of the game and following it up with another strike in her next over. South Africa slipped to 45/3 when rain arrived and forced the match to be abandoned. Bangladesh will play Sri Lanka next, while South Africa meet Pakistan on September 28.
Sri Lanka–Pakistan Clash Abandoned
Colombo witnessed another rain-hit affair as Sri Lanka vs Pakistan was called off after just 33 runs were scored. Chamari Athapaththu’s dismissal was the only highlight before heavy showers washed away the contest. Sri Lanka face Bangladesh next, while Pakistan clash with South Africa.
The opening day of CWC25 warm-ups showcased England’s dominance, India A’s resilience, and glimpses of Bangladesh’s young pace talent. However, rain left fans frustrated, cutting short two contests. With just days to go for the main tournament, teams will be keen to fine-tune combinations in their remaining warm-ups.