The build-up to the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 reached new heights as all eight team captains came together for a special Captains’ Day celebration, held simultaneously in Bengaluru and Colombo. With the tournament opener just days away, the skippers shared their thoughts on the challenges and excitement awaiting them on cricket’s biggest stage.
Hosts Embrace Home Advantage
For the two host nations, the World Cup brings both pride and pressure.
India’s Harmanpreet Kaur reflected on the game’s rising popularity and the privilege of playing in front of passionate home fans.
“Every team has an equal chance to win this World Cup, which shows how much the standard of women’s cricket has improved,” Kaur said. “A home World Cup is always special, and the packed stadiums will motivate us to give our very best.”
Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu echoed those sentiments, expressing excitement at the thought of home support.
“We are playing on our home soil, and I know many Sri Lankans will be there to support us. I hope the stadiums will be full of energy during our matches.”
Champions Expect Fierce Competition
Defending champions Australia, led by Alyssa Healy, acknowledged the growing competitiveness in the women’s game.
“I believe this is going to be the toughest World Cup we’ve ever been a part of. Every single team is going to be difficult to beat,” Healy said, highlighting the depth across all squads.
South Africa skipper Laura Wolvaardt agreed, noting there are no easy games at this level.
“In a tournament like this, every team is a big team. Nobody is guaranteed a win.”
New Zealand Confident After T20 Triumph
Fresh from their 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup victory, New Zealand enter with renewed confidence. Captain Sophie Devine believes the White Ferns can ride that momentum.
“Winning the T20 World Cup gives us belief that we can win world events. The opportunities in women’s cricket have grown so much—it’s incredible compared to when I started.”
Emerging Sides Inspired to Perform
Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana Joty underlined her team’s role in inspiring fans back home.
“Interest in women’s cricket is growing in Bangladesh. It’s our responsibility to give back through our performances.”
Pakistan skipper Fatima Sana expressed optimism too, pointing to familiar conditions.
“The pitches in Sri Lanka are quite similar to Pakistan, so we feel well-prepared for this challenge.”
England Relish India’s Fan Energy
England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt highlighted how India’s passionate crowds can elevate the experience for players.
“The energy from Indian fans is something unique—it lifts the game to another level. We’re expecting incredible support throughout the tournament.”
The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 begins on September 30, with hosts India facing Sri Lanka in the opening match at Guwahati. Games will be staged across five venues—Guwahati, Indore, Navi Mumbai, Visakhapatnam, and Colombo—promising an electrifying spectacle of world-class cricket.