ICC Women's World Cup 2025: India defeat Pakistan amid controversy and bugs
India secured an 88-run victory over Pakistan in Colombo, marred by a run-out dispute, toss confusion and a swarm of insects disrupting play.
Colombo
India 247 (50 overs); Pakistan 159 (43 overs): India won by 88 runs
India opened their campaign with a commanding 88-run victory over Pakistan in Colombo. Harleen Deol top-scored with 46, while Richa Ghosh's unbeaten 35 off 20 balls lifted India to 247. Diana Baig claimed 4-69 as Pakistan bowled India out on the final delivery after early breakthroughs.
Run-out controversy
Early in Pakistan's chase, opener Muneeba Ali was controversially ruled out following a chaotic third-umpire review. Replays initially showed her bat grounded, but a subsequent check found she had lifted her bat as the bails fell. Pakistan's protests were dismissed, and replays later revealed she would have been plumb LBW had the appeal been reviewed.
Toss confusion
The match began in disarray when Pakistan captain Fatima Sana's call of "tails" was misheard by referee Shandre Fritz, who announced "heads is the call." The error went unchallenged, allowing Pakistan to win the toss and bowl first.
Insect invasion
Play was halted in the 25th over as swarms of insects covered the field. Both teams used sprays and towels to clear the bugs before a 15-minute suspension for fumigation allowed play to resume.
This match demonstrated India's clinical performance under pressure, overcoming on-field confusion and environmental disruptions to secure a crucial World Cup victory.
This topic was reported by BBC Sport.
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