As the women’s ODI World Cup heats up, India and Pakistan prepare for their next clash—one with a long-standing history. In 11 previous encounters, Pakistan has never defeated India, with India winning by at least 80 runs or five wickets in every match.
Moments Beyond the Rivalry
The last ODI World Cup meeting between these teams was memorable not only for India’s 107-run victory but also for a moment of shared humanity. Indian players were seen interacting with Bismah Maroof’s six-month-old daughter, delighting in the baby and sharing a lighthearted moment despite the high stakes. This gesture highlights that beyond the intense cricket rivalry, there is mutual respect and camaraderie among the athletes.
India’s Form and Key Players
India have had a strong start in this tournament, winning three of their last five ODIs (WLWLW). While the top order will look to fire, their lower-order batting has already proven crucial. Amanjot Kaur and Deepti Sharma helped India post a competitive total against Sri Lanka, while the bowling attack, led by Sneh Rana, continues to impress.
Rana has been particularly dominant at the Khettarama ground, taking 15 wickets at an average of 14.00 in four matches during a tri-series earlier this year, earning Player of the Tournament honors. In the current World Cup, she has already taken 2/32 against Sri Lanka and contributed 28 not out with the bat.
Probable India XI:
- Pratika Rawal
- Smriti Mandhana
- Harleen Deol
- Harmanpreet Kaur (capt)
- Jemimah Rodrigues
- Deepti Sharma
- Richa Ghosh (wk)
- Amanjot Kaur
- Sneh Rana
- Kranti Goud
- Shree Charani
Pakistan’s Challenges and Key Players
Pakistan’s batting remains their biggest hurdle. After being bowled out for 129 against Bangladesh, they will look to Sidra Amin to anchor the innings. Amin has been in excellent form recently, scoring 121, 122, and 50 against South Africa**, but she fell first ball in the last match, facing a quality delivery.
Pakistan may consider adjustments to strengthen their lineup. Eyman Fatima could be introduced to bolster the batting, while legspinner Syeda Aroob Shah offers additional depth with both ball and bat.
Probable Pakistan XI:
- Muneeba Ali
- Omaima Sohail
- Sidra Amin
- Aliya Riaz
- Natalia Pervaiz
- Fatima Sana (capt)
- Rameen Shamim
- Diana Baig
- Sidra Nawaz (wk)
- Nashra Sandhu
- Sadia Iqbal
The Outlook
While Pakistan faces an uphill battle against a strong Indian side, the focus will be on building partnerships and handling India’s high-quality bowling. For India, maintaining their unbeaten World Cup streak against Pakistan and keeping the momentum in the tournament will be key.