In a thrilling display of skill and resilience, the Pakistan women’s cricket team earned their first point in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, holding England to a no-result tie at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo on October 15, 2025. A spirited bowling performance led by captain Fatima Sana restricted England to 133 for nine, but persistent rain forced the match to be abandoned after Pakistan reached 34 without loss. This shared point marks a significant step for Pakistan in their World Cup campaign, setting the stage for their next challenge against New Zealand on October 18.
Pakistan’s Bowling Masterclass Sets the Tone
After winning the toss and electing to field, Pakistan’s bowlers came out firing, putting England’s star-studded batting lineup under immediate pressure. The new-ball duo of Diana Baig and Fatima Sana struck early, with Baig dismissing Tammy Beaumont in the second over and Fatima removing Amy Jones and England captain Natalie Sciver-Brunt in quick succession. The early breakthroughs left England reeling at 39 for four after just 6.4 overs.
Fatima’s fiery spell continued as she claimed the prized wicket of Heather Knight (18 off 17 balls, 4x4s), further denting England’s hopes. Left-arm spinner Sadia Iqbal then turned the screws, dismissing Emma Lamb and Sophie Dunkley to reduce England to a precarious 57 for six in 11.3 overs. Rameen Shamim added to England’s woes by removing Alice Capsey (16 off 43 balls, 2x4s), leaving them at 78 for seven in 23.1 overs.
A rain interruption midway through England’s innings reduced the match to 31 overs per side. Post-resumption, England managed a partial recovery through a gritty 47-run eighth-wicket stand between Charlie Dean (33) and Emily Arlott, limping to 133 for nine. Fatima Sana led from the front with a stellar 4 for 27, while Sadia Iqbal chipped in with 2 for 16, showcasing Pakistan’s bowling depth and discipline.
Rain Robs Pakistan’s Chase but Secures a Crucial Point
With the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method setting a revised target of 113 runs from 31 overs, Pakistan’s openers began confidently. Omaima Sohail (19 not out) and her partner steered Pakistan to 34 without loss in 6.4 overs, displaying composure against England’s bowlers. However, persistent rain returned, halting play and ultimately leading to the match being abandoned. Both teams shared the points, giving Pakistan their first point on the World Cup table—a morale-boosting moment in their campaign.
Fatima Sana Shines
Fatima Sana’s all-round leadership was the highlight of the match. Her 4 for 27 not only dismantled England’s top order but also earned her widespread praise for her tactical acumen and relentless energy. Sadia Iqbal’s spin wizardry (2 for 16) complemented Fatima’s pace, while Diana Baig and Rameen Shamim’s contributions ensured England were kept on the back foot. In the batting department, Omaima Sohail’s unbeaten 19 provided a glimpse of Pakistan’s potential to chase down the revised target had the weather cooperated.
New Zealand Awaits
This hard-fought point sets up an exciting clash for Pakistan against New Zealand at the same Colombo venue on October 18, 2025. With momentum from their bowling heroics and a solid start to their chase, Pakistan will look to build on this performance. The team’s ability to adapt to challenging conditions and exploit England’s vulnerabilities bodes well for their upcoming fixtures. However, they’ll need to sharpen their batting to convert starts into substantial totals against a formidable New Zealand side.
Pakistan’s Rising Presence in Women’s Cricket
This result is a testament to the growing prowess of Pakistan’s women’s cricket team. Historically underdogs in global tournaments, their disciplined bowling and fearless approach against a powerhouse like England signal a shift. The shared point not only boosts their confidence but also keeps them in contention in the World Cup standings. As women’s cricket gains traction globally, performances like these highlight Pakistan’s potential to compete with the best.
While rain denied Pakistan a chance to chase victory, their first point in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 is a milestone worth celebrating. Fatima Sana’s leadership, backed by a cohesive bowling unit, showcased Pakistan’s ability to challenge elite teams. As they prepare to face New Zealand, the team carries newfound belief and a platform to build on. With the world watching, Pakistan’s women cricketers are proving they belong on the global stage.
