The sixth match of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 in Colombo began with a tense moment as Pakistan Women won the toss and chose to bowl first against India Women, but what caught everyone’s attention was the noticeable lack of a handshake between the two captains, Fatima Sana and Harmanpreet Kaur.
With overcast skies hovering above the R Premadasa Stadium, Pakistan captain Fatima Sana said her decision was guided by the bit of moisture on the surface, giving early advantage to the seamers.
“The weather looks good, and there’s a bit of moisture in the pitch. We want to execute our plans better today. Anything under 250 should be a good chase,” said Fatima after the toss.
Pakistan made one change: Sadaf Shamas came in for Omaima Sohail. The focus, Fatima added, was on disciplined bowling from Diana Baig and herself to utilize the swinging conditions.
Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, meanwhile, remained upbeat despite the tension-filled start. She confirmed one enforced change, with Renuka Singh replacing Amanjot Kaur, who was unwell.
Playing XIs
India Women: Smriti Mandhana, Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Harmanpreet Kaur (capt), Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), Sneh Rana, Kranti Goud, Shree Charani, Renuka Singh
Pakistan Women: Muneeba Ali, Sadaf Shamas, Sidra Amin, Aliya Riaz, Natalia Pervaiz, Fatima Sana (capt), Rameen Shamim, Diana Baig, Sidra Nawaz (wk), Nashra Sandhu, Sadia Iqbal