Colombo, Oct 18 (UNI) Rain once again disrupted action at the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, as the clash between New Zealand Women and Pakistan Women ended with no result at the R Premadasa Stadium here today.
The washout denied fans a full contest, but SA became the second team to qualify for the semifinals as their number of wins is four and NZ is the only team which can match them on points, but their number of wins can be only three.
Winning the toss, New Zealand Women elected to bowl, and Pakistan innings got off to a bright start despite interruptions.
Muneeba Ali began aggressively, hitting four boundaries in her first over from Rosemary Mair. She continued her positive approach, adding 22 runs off 26 balls before being caught by Suzie Bates off Jess Kerr.
Omaima Sohail, the first wicket to fall to Lea Tahuhu lbw for 3, added 30 runs in a patient innings. Sidra Amin struck a boundary through cover, but was caught at backward point by Eden Carson off Tahuhu for 9.
Aliya Riaz provided some resistance with her attacking play, hitting three well-timed fours, one against Tahuhu and another off Jess Kerr, finishing unbeaten on 28. Natalia Pervaiz also contributed with a quick 10 before Eden Carson caught her at long-on.
Captain Fatima Sana fell for 2, bowled by Amelia Kerr, as the googly turned sharply past her attempt to defend, leaving Pakistan five down at 80 in 19.5 overs. Sidra Nawaz remained not out on 6. Extras, including 11 wides, took the total to 92 for 5 in 25 overs.
New Zealand’s bowlers impressed with their discipline and variety. Tahuhu took two wickets, and Amelia Kerr, Amelia Kerr and Carson claimed a wicket each. Sophie Devine bowled economically but did not pick up a wicket.
The Colombo venue has now become notorious for weather interruptions in this Women’s World Cup, frustrating players and fans alike. Teams will have to stay adaptive as the tournament progresses toward the semifinals.
