The nineteenth clash of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 promises an enthralling contest as New Zealand Women face Pakistan Women on October 18th at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. The match begins at 3:00 PM IST, setting the stage for a fascinating duel between New Zealand’s composed precision and Pakistan’s spirited resolve under the humid Colombo skies.
Form Guide – New Zealand
New Zealand head into this fixture with renewed purpose after a fluctuating start to their campaign. Against Australia, they had the defending champions under pressure at 128/5, before a lower-order surge saw them lose by 89 runs. Their following game against South Africa showcased resilience and character — posting 232 runs before falling narrowly short in defense. The White Ferns then rediscovered their dominance with a clinical 100-run victory over Bangladesh, reigniting their World Cup momentum before rain washed out their next fixture against Sri Lanka.
Leading into the tournament, New Zealand’s 2025 season had been short yet promising. They sealed a 2-0 series win over Sri Lanka, with emphatic victories by 78 runs and 98 runs after the opening ODI was washed out. However, their build-up to the World Cup hit turbulence as both warm-up games were lost via the DLS method — each by four wickets, against India A and India respectively.
Despite the uneven trajectory, New Zealand’s squad remains a blend of experience and match-winning potential. Sophie Devine’s leadership, Amelia Kerr’s all-round brilliance, and Lea Tahuhu’s new-ball menace form the team’s backbone. With power-hitters like Suzie Bates and Maddy Green supporting a balanced bowling attack, the White Ferns will look to translate their flashes of brilliance into consistent dominance as the tournament intensifies.
Form Guide – Pakistan
Pakistan’s campaign so far has been a tale of glimpses rather than complete performances. Their batting woes have persisted — folding for 129 against Bangladesh and 159 versus India, despite disciplined spells from their bowlers. Against Australia, they fought valiantly but were undone by a strong lower-order push, losing by 107 runs. Their latest clash with England showed promising signs — chasing 113 from 31 overs, they reached 34/0 in six overs before rain cruelly washed away their hopes of a potential upset.
Yet, beneath the surface, there lies potential waiting to spark. Earlier this year, Pakistan went unbeaten in the ICC World Cup Qualifiers at home, showcasing composure and control. They also displayed grit in their bilateral series against South Africa, staging a strong comeback in the final match to bowl the Proteas out for just 115 runs. However, disjointed preparations — marred by rain-hit warm-ups and narrow defeats — have disrupted their rhythm heading into the main event.
Now, with their World Cup campaign at a crossroads, Pakistan’s task is clear: rediscover belief and cohesion. With Fatima Sana’s emerging leadership, Diana Baig’s incisive bowling, and Muneeba Ali’s anchoring ability, Pakistan have the tools to challenge any side. But their batting unit must stand tall to complement their disciplined attack. A victory here would not only lift their spirits but also keep their World Cup hopes alive heading into the final stretch.
Head-to-Head:
- Total Matches – 17
- New Zealand Wins – 15
- Pakistan Wins – 1
- Tied – 1
New Zealand have enjoyed near-total dominance over Pakistan in women’s ODIs, winning 15 of their 17 encounters. Pakistan’s lone triumph came years ago, with one match ending in a tie. Their most recent face-off came during the 2023 Pakistan tour of New Zealand, where the hosts claimed the series 2-0, with one match tied — reaffirming New Zealand’s upper hand and Pakistan’s quest to overturn history in this crucial World Cup fixture.
Loves all things female cricket