The ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 began in thrilling fashion as hosts India outclassed Sri Lanka by 59 runs in the opening clash. The contest had its fair share of drama, rain interruptions, and momentum shifts before India eventually stamped their authority.
The home side did not get the ideal start, losing their in-form opener Smriti Mandhana (8 off 10), undone by a sharp delivery from Udeshika Prabodhani. Harleen Deol (48 off 64) and Pratika Rawal (37 off 59) attempted to steady the innings, but their cautious approach, coupled with rain breaks, slowed India down. The pressure mounted further when Inoka Ranaweera (4/46) produced a sensational over, removing Harleen, Jemimah Rodrigues (0 off 1), and captain Harmanpreet Kaur (21 off 19) in quick succession. From a steady platform, India suddenly slumped to 124/6.
It was then that Deepti Sharma (53 off 53) and Amanjot Kaur (57 off 56) came together in a game-changing partnership worth 103 runs. Their blend of calmness and counterattack turned the tide, while a fiery late cameo from Sneh Rana (28* off 15) lifted India to 269/8 from their 47 overs. Sri Lanka were handed a revised target of 271 under the DLS method.
Sri Lanka began their chase brightly with a 30-run opening stand and a crucial 52-run partnership for the second wicket between skipper Chamari Athapaththu (43 off 47) and Harshitha Madavi (29 off 45). At 82/1, they looked well-placed to challenge the hosts, but Deepti Sharma once again turned the match with the ball, dismissing Athapaththu at a decisive moment. From there, the visitors lost their way. Nilakshi de Silva (35 off 29) fought valiantly but lacked support, as India’s bowlers tightened the screws. Sneh Rana (2/32) and Shree Charani (2/37) ensured the chase fizzled out, sealing a confident win for the hosts.
Highlights from the match:
Deepti Sharma – 53 (53) & 3/54 (10)
Deepti Sharma was the heartbeat of India’s victory, delivering an all-round performance of the highest order. With the bat, she walked in when India were reeling at 124/6 yet remained unfazed. Her run-a-ball 53 was built on clever strike rotation, well-timed boundaries, and a steely calm that steadied the innings. Together with Amanjot Kaur, she not only revived India but also tilted momentum firmly back in their favour. With the ball, Deepti once again proved decisive, removing Chamari Athapaththu at the perfect moment before accounting for Kavisha Dilhari and Anushka Sanjeewani. Her ability to impact the game in both innings made her the undisputed Player of the Match.
Inoka Ranaweera – 4/46 (9)
For Sri Lanka, Inoka Ranaweera’s spell was a reminder of her class and experience. After sending back Pratika Rawal, she returned with a magical over that ripped through India’s middle order, dismissing Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Harmanpreet Kaur in quick succession. That single over left India rattled at 121/5 and gave Sri Lanka real hope of an upset. Although India recovered later, Ranaweera’s accuracy, guile, and ability to break partnerships were the standout features of her performance. She was the one who truly kept Sri Lanka in the contest.
Amanjot Kaur – 57 (56) & 1/37 (6)
If Deepti was the calm architect, Amanjot Kaur was the fearless enforcer. Walking in under immense pressure, she chose positivity, counterattacking with fluent strokes and crisp boundaries. Her 57 off 56 balls not only lifted India out of a collapse but also set the stage for a competitive total. The 103-run stand with Deepti was the turning point of the match. With the ball, she chipped in by dismissing Vishmi Gunaratne, showing her growing value as a reliable all-rounder. It was a mature, impactful performance that underlined her temperament.
Chamari Athapaththu – 43 (47) & 1/24 (3)
Chamari Athapaththu once again stood tall as Sri Lanka’s driving force. With the ball, she dismissed Richa Ghosh to add to India’s early troubles. With the bat, she led from the front, crafting a fluent 43 from 47 deliveries. Her timing, intent, and aggression gave Sri Lanka hope, particularly during her 52-run partnership with Harshitha Madavi. But just as she seemed set to anchor the chase deep, Deepti Sharma struck, cutting short her innings at a crucial stage. Without their captain, Sri Lanka’s batting lacked direction. Athapaththu shone brightly but fell too soon for her team’s liking.
Sneh Rana – 28* (15) & 2/32 (10)
Sneh Rana provided the finishing touches that sealed India’s victory. With the bat, she unleashed a blistering cameo, smashing 28 not out from just 15 deliveries, striking at nearly 190 and adding vital runs at the death. With the ball, she was equally influential, bowling with control and clever variations to pick up two key wickets — Nilakshi de Silva and Sugandika Kumari. Her dual contribution ensured India’s dominance was complete, proving why she is regarded as one of India’s most valuable all-rounders.
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