The twenty-fifth encounter of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 promises a gripping Asian showdown as Sri Lanka Women take on Pakistan Women on October 24th at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. The contest begins at 3:00 PM (IST) and is expected to deliver a fascinating clash between two sides desperate to revive their fortunes in the tournament.
Sri Lanka’s journey has been one of fluctuating form and frustrating rain interruptions. Their opening clash against India showcased their bowling resolve — reducing the hosts to 124/6 — before a revised DLS target of 271 proved unachievable. A rain-hit fixture versus Australia stalled their rhythm, followed by a collapse against England while chasing 254. Consecutive washouts against New Zealand further hurt their momentum, and a heavy 10-wicket defeat to South Africa deepened their woes. However, a much-needed 7-run victory over Bangladesh finally gave them a glimpse of hope heading into this key fixture.
Pakistan, too, have endured an erratic campaign marked by moments of promise overshadowed by recurring batting frailties. Their collapses against Bangladesh (129 all out) and India (159 all out) exposed vulnerability under pressure, though their bowlers have fought valiantly. Despite spirited performances against Australia and England, they have struggled to close games. Rain robbed them of potential points versus New Zealand, and a humbling 150-run loss to South Africa further dented morale. They now seek redemption with a complete all-round effort in Colombo.
Squads:
Sri Lanka Women’s Cricket Team
Chamari Athapaththu (C), Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunaratne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Kavisha Dilhari, Nilakshi de Silva, Anushka Sanjeewani, Imesha Dulani, Dewmi Vihanga, Piumi Wathsala, Inoka Ranaweera, Sugandika Kumari, Udeshika Prabodhani, Malki Madara, Achini Kulasooriya
Pakistan Women’s Cricket Team
Fatima Sana (C), Muneeba Ali Siddiqui (VC), Aliya Riaz, Diana Baig, Eyman Fatima, Nashra Sandhu, Natalia Parvaiz, Omaima Sohail, Rameen Shamim, Sadaf Shamas, Sadia Iqbal, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Sidra Amin, Sidra Nawaz, Syeda Aroob Shah
Players to watch out:
Hasini Perera
Sri Lanka’s dependable top-order anchor, Hasini Perera, has quietly built a reputation for reliability. Her composed 85 against Bangladesh and contributions of 44 vs New Zealand and 35 vs England highlight her consistency amid batting instability. With 1,036 runs in 59 ODIs, her ability to rotate strike and construct partnerships makes her a crucial pillar for Sri Lanka.
Chamari Athapaththu
The face of Sri Lankan women’s cricket, Chamari Athapaththu remains the heartbeat of her side. After modest early outings (43 vs India, 15 vs England, 11 vs South Africa), she roared back with 53 against New Zealand and a decisive all-round performance — 46 runs and 4/42 — against Bangladesh. With 4,045 runs and 50 wickets in 120 ODIs, Athapaththu’s aggression, leadership, and all-round brilliance make her the ultimate game-changer.
Muneeba Ali Siddiqui
Vice-captain Muneeba Ali has endured a lean patch this World Cup (17, 2, 3, 9*, 22, 5), yet her class and technique are undeniable. With 1,368 runs in 58 ODIs, including a century, she possesses the ability to steady Pakistan’s innings and play the anchor role — something the side desperately needs to complement their bowling strength.
Nashra Sandhu
Pakistan’s premier spinner, Nashra Sandhu, has rediscovered her rhythm mid-tournament. After quiet starts (0/27, 1/52), she struck form with 3/37 against Australia and 3/45 against South Africa. Her subtle drift and variations have earned her 111 wickets in 81 ODIs (BB: 6/26), and she remains Pakistan’s biggest threat on a surface expected to aid turn.
Pitch:
The R. Premadasa Stadium pitch typically offers value for stroke-play early on, with an average first-innings score around 288. As the match progresses, spin becomes increasingly influential, particularly under lights when grip and turn come into play. Teams winning the toss might prefer to bowl first, taking advantage of early seam movement before settling into a chase-friendly second innings.
Weather:
Colombo’s weather is forecast to be partly cloudy with intermittent light showers. Temperatures will hover near 29°C, with 76% humidity and a gentle 10 kph breeze, creating potential swing for pacers. There’s a 40% chance of rain, but brief interruptions aside, a full game remains likely.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Chamari Athapaththu, Hasini Perera, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Kavisha Dilhari, Nilakshi de Silva, Inoka Ranaweera, Fatima Sana, Sidra Amin, Muneeba Ali Siddiqui, Diana Baig, Nashra Sandhu
Match Details:
Date – October 24, 2025
Time – 3:00 PM IST
Venue – R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
Broadcast – Telecast on Star Sports Network | Live Streaming on JioCinema
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