Pakistan’s Struggles Continue in ICC Women’s World Cup 2025
Pakistan suffered their third consecutive loss in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, as defending champions Australia delivered a decisive 107-run victory in the tournament’s ninth match. The game took place at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Wednesday, marking another challenging day for the Green Shirts.
Australia’s strong performance was led by Beth Mooney, whose resilient century played a crucial role in setting up a formidable total. The team’s collective bowling effort ensured Pakistan could not keep up with the required run rate, resulting in a comprehensive win.
Australia’s Strong Batting Performance
Opting to bat first, Australia posted a solid total of 221/9 in their 50 overs. The innings began with a steady partnership from openers Alyssa Healy and Phoebe Litchfield, who added 30 runs before both were dismissed in quick succession. Healy scored 20 off 23 balls, while Litchfield managed 10 before being caught and bowled by Fatima Sana.
Ellyse Perry and Beth Mooney then attempted to stabilize the innings, but wickets continued to fall. Perry was stumped for just five, and Annabel Sutherland was dismissed for one, leaving Australia at 59/4 after 14.3 overs. Mooney tried to anchor the innings, but the loss of key wickets kept the team in trouble.
Rameen Shamim and Nashra Sandhu were instrumental in restricting Australia, with Shamim taking two wickets in the next over, including Georgia Wareham, who was out for a duck. Mooney and Kim Garth then formed a vital partnership for the eighth wicket, adding 39 runs and helping Australia reach 115/8 in 33.5 overs.
Mooney reached her 20th WODI half-century, while Alana King provided valuable support, remaining unbeaten with a brisk 51 off 49 deliveries. The duo’s 106-run stand for the ninth wicket ensured Australia crossed the 200-run mark.
Pakistan’s Weak Batting Display
In response, Pakistan struggled to match Australia’s score. They were all out for 114 in 36.3 overs, with only Sidra Amin managing to score a fighting 35 off 52 deliveries. Other notable contributions came from Rameen Shamim (15), skipper Fatima Sana, and Nashra Sandhu, who each scored 11.
The Australian bowling attack proved too strong, with Kim Garth leading the charge by taking three wickets for just 14 runs in six overs. Megan Schutt and Annabel Sutherland each claimed two wickets, while Ashleigh Gardner, Alana King, and Georgia Wareham added one each.
Standings and Implications
With this victory, Australia climbed to the top of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 standings, earning five points from three matches. Pakistan, on the other hand, remained at the bottom of the table after losing all of their first three games.
Despite their struggles, Pakistan’s bowlers, particularly Nashra Sandhu, showed glimpses of potential. Sandhu took three wickets for 37 runs in 10 overs, while Rameen Shamim and Fatima Sana each took two. Sadia Iqbal and Diana Baig also contributed with one wicket each.
Key Performances
Beth Mooney was the standout performer for Australia, scoring an impressive 109 off 114 deliveries, with 11 boundaries. Her innings was crucial in building the foundation for Australia’s total. Alana King’s unbeaten 51 off 49 balls, featuring three sixes and four fours, provided the finishing touch to the innings.
For Pakistan, Sidra Amin’s efforts were commendable, but the rest of the batting lineup failed to provide consistent support. The team’s inability to build partnerships left them vulnerable to Australia’s disciplined bowling attack.
Conclusion
The match highlighted the challenges faced by Pakistan in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025. While Australia’s dominance was evident, there are areas where Pakistan can improve, particularly in their batting consistency and fielding. With more matches to come, the Green Shirts will need to regroup and focus on turning their fortunes around.
