In the press conference post Pakistan’s heavy 88-run defeat to India, pacer Diana Baig opened up about the bizarre run-out involving opening batter Muneeba Ali during the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 group match against India at Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium, confirming that the matter has been resolved and there’s “no need to talk about it now.”
The incident occurred in the fourth over of Pakistan’s chase when confusion and controversy unfolded. Muneeba, who wasn’t attempting a run, was ruled out in an unusual fashion. The dismissal sparked debate among Pakistan’s players and support staff, with the team visibly questioning the decision near the boundary line while Muneeba lingered on the edge of the field.
The chaos stemmed from an uncommon sequence of events. Muneeba had been batting out of her crease when India appealed for a lbw off Kranti Goud’s bowling. As the appeal went up, she quickly grounded her bat behind the line. However, moments later, as Deepti Sharma threw the ball from the slip cordon, Muneeba slightly lifted her bat, and it was in that fleeting instant that the ball hit the stumps, dislodging the bails.
The third umpire ruled her out, much to Pakistan’s disbelief, and the decision triggered an exchange with match officials.
Addressing the matter after the match, Baig played down the controversy, saying, “Muneeba’s run-out issue has already been settled, I believe. I don’t want to talk much about it now. Whatever happened and whatever the situation was, I think it has been resolved.”
Despite the incident, Baig had a personal milestone to celebrate, her 100th international wicket, achieved during a spell of 4 for 69 in 10 overs. However, her efforts went in vain as Pakistan were bowled out 88 runs short while chasing India’s target of 248.
Reflecting on the loss, Baig admitted that Pakistan’s batting collapse cost them the game. “I think 250 was a good target when we started the chase. But we lost too many wickets early on, which broke our momentum. When Natalia and Sidra were batting, we had settled down a bit, but once they got out, the innings became unstable again,” she said.
Baig remained optimistic about Pakistan’s progress, emphasizing the team’s ongoing efforts to build consistency. “We’re constantly trying, if we can perform more consistently, both in practice and in matches, I’m sure we’ll start winning more games,” she added.
The 29-year-old also lauded skipper Fatima Sana for her growth as a cricketer and leader. “She didn’t bat earlier but within these years she has improved herself a lot. She is like a role model to us as we look up to her on how we can improve our batting,” Baig expressed.
With two losses in their opening fixtures, Pakistan will now look to bounce back when they face Australia on Wednesday in Colombo, a challenge that promises to test both their composure and intent.
Meanwhile, India, riding high on confidence after back-to-back wins, will take on South Africa on Thursday, aiming to extend their unbeaten run in the home World Cup.
Loves all things female cricket