The spotlight shifts to Colombo as India prepare to take on Pakistan in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 on October 5. After a strong 59-run win over Sri Lanka in their opening game, India look confident, while Pakistan are reeling from a heavy defeat against Bangladesh.
Saba Karim: “India Far Superior”
Former India cricketer Saba Karim has dismissed the idea of this being India’s toughest group-stage clash. Speaking during a media interaction, he said:
“No, not at all. The real challenges will come against England, Australia, and New Zealand. Pakistan came through qualifiers and are not at India’s level. India are far superior in quality.”
Karim pointed out that while Pakistan are playing all their matches in Colombo, they cannot turn local familiarity into an advantage because they lack depth and balance.
Spin-Friendly Conditions in India’s Favour
Colombo’s pitches are expected to assist spinners, and Karim believes India’s spin trio — Deepti Sharma, Sneh Rana, and Shree Charani — will thrive. “Pakistan already struggled against Bangladesh’s spin attack. India’s bowlers can exploit those conditions even more effectively,” he said.
Also Read: Women’s World Cup 2025: England Crush South Africa by 10 Wickets in Dominant Opener
No Handshakes With Pakistan
Echoing the stance taken during the Asia Cup by the men’s team, Karim confirmed that the Indian women’s side will avoid handshakes with Pakistani players.
“The BCCI has made its stance very clear. I don’t think the Indian team will shake hands with Pakistan. Once the match begins, however, the focus will shift entirely to cricket,” he added.
Rivalry or Mismatch?
Karim also addressed the notion of an India–Pakistan rivalry in women’s cricket. “For me, a rivalry exists only when contests are evenly matched. India have won every ODI against Pakistan, and most have been one-sided. India are far ahead in terms of skill, resources, and support,” he said.
Team India’s Growing Depth
India’s opening win showcased their batting resilience. Despite losing early wickets, contributions beyond Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur carried the team forward. Karim believes this new-found depth is a major strength.
Bowling balance may also improve with the possible return of Renuka Singh Thakur, who is recovering from a stress fracture. “She could be key with the new ball, especially against Pakistan’s vulnerable top order,” Karim noted.
Outlook
With a stronger squad, superior spin attack, and greater depth across departments, India enter the contest as overwhelming favourites. While Pakistan cannot be taken lightly, the gap between the two sides remains clear. As Karim summed it up:
“If India stay focused and manage pressure well, they will handle Pakistan comfortably and set themselves up for a strong World Cup run.”
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