Weather forces another washout at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, confirming South Africa’s semi-final berth
Persistent rain once again disrupted the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, forcing the New Zealand vs Pakistan clash at Colombo’s R Premadasa Stadium on Saturday to be abandoned. Both teams were awarded a point each after two rain interruptions made further play impossible.
The no-result had wider implications for the tournament — it officially secured South Africa’s place in the semi-finals following their dominant win over Sri Lanka on Friday. Australia had already booked their knockout spot, leaving two semi-final berths still open.
Weather spoils New Zealand’s early advantage
New Zealand, who had won the toss and opted to bowl, were well on top before the heavens opened. Pakistan found themselves struggling at 92/5 in 25 overs, with the White Ferns’ pace and spin attack combining to dismantle the top order.
Lea Tahuhu struck first, trapping Omaima Sohail leg-before as she missed a flick across the line. Soon after, Jess Kerr removed Muneeba Ali, who had provided a steady start, with Suzie Bates taking a sharp catch at mid-wicket to leave Pakistan wobbling early.
Tahuhu then delivered again, dismissing Sidra Ameen for 14 as the opener miscued an ambitious shot to Eden Carson at backward point.
Carson and Kerr tighten the screws
Once play resumed after the initial rain delay, New Zealand continued to dictate terms. Eden Carson joined the wicket-takers, sending Natalia Pervaiz back after she attempted to clear the ropes but found the fielder at long-on.
Moments later, Fatima Sana became Carson’s second victim, beaten comprehensively by a sharply turning googly that snuck through bat and pad to crash into the stumps.
At that stage, Pakistan had lost half their side, with Aliya Riaz (28)* fighting a lone battle when rain returned for a second time — this time for good.
Points shared, pressure mounts
The shared points did little to improve either team’s standings. New Zealand stayed fifth with four points from five matches, still needing to win both their remaining fixtures — against India (October 23) and England (October 26) — to stay in contention for the semi-finals.
Pakistan, on the other hand, remain winless and bottom of the table, with their next game a tough assignment against in-form South Africa on October 21.