In the ongoing Women’s ODI World Cup, India reaffirmed its dominance over Pakistan with a comprehensive 88-run victory, extending its unbeaten record to 12-0 in the format. Though the scoreboard reflected a one-sided contest, the game exposed several underlying challenges for the Women in Blue.
Pakistan, opting to field first, aimed to chase around 250. Their plan nearly worked as Diana Baig delivered an impressive spell, claiming four wickets and restricting India to 247. India’s top order struggled early, losing Smriti Mandhana within the first 10 overs. Partnerships between Harleen Deol and Pratika Rawal failed to build momentum, and even skipper Harmanpreet Kaur couldn’t convert her start into a big knock. It was only through Jemimah Rodrigues (32 off 37) and Richa Ghosh (35 off 20)* that India reached a fighting total, despite multiple interruptions due to insect infestations that halted play for fumigation.
Chasing 248, Pakistan got off to a shaky start when Muneeba Ali was run out in bizarre fashion after failing to ground her bat. Sidra Amin fought valiantly with a well-constructed 81 off 106 balls, frustrating India’s bowlers for much of the chase. However, her dismissal ended Pakistan’s hopes, and the lower order collapsed swiftly.
For India, debutant Kranti Goud showed maturity beyond her experience, maintaining tight lines despite going wicketless (5-0-22-0). Her inclusion, following a stellar six-wicket haul against England earlier this year, strengthens India’s pace options heading deeper into the tournament.
While India’s dominance continues in the Women’s ODI World Cup, the struggle to rotate strike and build partnerships remains a concern. Pakistan, though winless, walked away with lessons on how to challenge the tournament favorites.