Bottom-ranked Pakistan are set to face an undefeated England side in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, and on paper, it looks like a serious mismatch.
England have steamrolled every team they’ve faced so far, while Pakistan are still searching for their first win of the tournament, and hoping to salvage pride before it’s too late.
England on a Roll, Pakistan in a Rut
England’s World Cup campaign has been nothing short of dominant. Three games, three wins, and three convincing performances. They’re not just winning; they’re crushing their opponents. From top to bottom, their squad looks balanced, confident, and hungry for another title.
Pakistan, on the other hand, have struggled to get going. Their batting has been the main culprit yet again. Totals of 129, 159, and 114 tell their own story – one of inconsistency, caution, and collapse.
While the Khettarama pitch in Colombo has offered some assistance to bowlers, Pakistan’s struggles have gone far beyond the surface. The lack of intent, long stretches without boundaries, and early wickets have kept them from building any momentum.
Only Sidra Amin has managed to stand tall amidst the ruins, scoring two half-centuries so far. She’s been the lone bright spark in an otherwise gloomy campaign. But one player can’t carry the entire load, and Pakistan desperately need others to step up if they’re to challenge England.
England Eye Semi-Final Spot
For England, this game is another step towards sealing a semi-final berth. Their bowling attack has been clinical, with Sophie Ecclestone, the world’s No. 1 ODI bowler, spinning webs around batters. Her spell against Sri Lanka on Saturday was a masterclass.
Adding depth to their spin department, Linsey Smith and Charlie Dean have both taken six wickets each in the tournament. If the pitch in Colombo continues to grip, Pakistan’s batters could be in for another long day.
And then there’s Nat Sciver-Brunt. The English skipper is in majestic touch, having scored her fifth World Cup hundred, her tenth in ODIs, in the last game. Her powerful strokeplay and ability to find gaps make her the biggest threat for Pakistan.
Head-to-Head: A Daunting History
England and Pakistan have met 15 times in Women’s ODIs, and the numbers couldn’t be more one-sided:
- England wins: 13
- Pakistan wins: 0
- No result: 2
In World Cup history, they’ve played four matches, all of which England have won comfortably. For Pakistan, this isn’t just about breaking a losing streak – it’s about rewriting a painful history.
Pakistan’s Challenge: Regroup and Rediscover
For skipper Fatima Sana, the task ahead isn’t just tactical, it’s emotional. Pakistan need belief, resilience, and unity. Their bowlers have shown glimpses of potential, often striking early. But the inability to sustain pressure in the middle and death overs has undone their efforts.
Against an England side that can be tested by spin, Nashra Sandhu and Sadia Iqbal will hold the key. The left-arm pair will look to choke the scoring rate and tempt mistakes from England’s top order. If they can get Sciver-Brunt early, the contest could take a different shape altogether.
Still, the odds are steep. England’s experience and form make them overwhelming favourites. But cricket has a way of surprising even the most certain outcomes.
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