The 9th match of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 took place in Colombo on October 8, featuring a thrilling showdown between Australia Women and Pakistan Women. Pakistan won the toss and decided to bowl first, hoping to put pressure on the strong Australian batting lineup early in the tournament.
Australia faced challenges right from the start, with Pakistan bowlers maintaining tight lines and taking quick wickets, which hindered the scoring. Opener Alyssa Healy scored 20 runs before being dismissed, and Phoebe Litchfield managed only 10. The middle order struggled as well. Georgia Wareham getting out for a duck, in the 22nd over, credits to a stunning catch and bowled by Rameen Shamim.
After delivering a fuller ball on middle and leg, Shamim lured Wareham into pushing down the pitch, but the ball soared high to Shamim’s right. As she followed through her delivery, Shamim quickly dove behind non-striker Beth Mooney and caught the ball cleanly in her palm with remarkable focus. While it might seem effortless, the catch demanded exceptional reflexes and courage.
The moment thrilled the crowd and fans around the world. Shamim’s catch of Georgia Wareham was a highlight, showcasing her athleticism as she ran and caught the ball one-handed, earning praise from commentators and fans who deemed it one of the best catches of the tournament. It was a remarkable and pivotal moment that showcased Shamim’s talent and determination, shifting the momentum decisively in Pakistan’s favor.
Pakistan was able to put Australia under pressure with regular wickets, with this catch signaling a significant turning point as Australia collapsed from 55/2 to 76/7. Pakistan’s bowling was led by Nashra Sandhu, who took three wickets, while Fatima Sana and Rameen Shamim contributed with two wickets each.
Despite the collapse of the Australian batting order, Beth Mooney emerged as the key player, scoring an impressive 109 runs off 114 balls, including 11 fours, and stabilizing the innings. Her determined performance, along with an aggressive unbeaten 51 from Alana King, helped Australia post a total of 221 for 9 in their full 50 overs.
The fall of wickets for Australia illustrated the pressure Pakistan maintained throughout the innings, effectively dismantling a formidable batting lineup and establishing themselves as a competitive team in the tournament.
This match of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 will be remembered not just for the competitive spirit on display but also for Rameen Shamim’s remarkable catch, which energized her team and embodied the essence of the tournament.
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