India sealed their second World Cup win as Kranti Gaud’s three-wicket spell dismantled Pakistan in Colombo.
COLOMBO: India secured back-to-back victories at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 with a commanding 88-run win over arch-rivals Pakistan, thanks to an all-round bowling performance led by young spinner Kranti Gaud.
Batting first, India posted a competitive total of 247, anchored by a steady 46 from Harleen Deol and a quick-fire 35 not out from Richa Ghosh. Despite a few batting collapses, India capitalised on quick runs in the final overs, even as Diana Baig impressed for Pakistan with four wickets.
After an entertaining first innings that included an unexpected interruption by swarming insects, Pakistan’s reply never truly gained momentum. Gaud’s early breakthroughs disrupted their chase, dismissing Sadaf Shams and Aliya Riaz cheaply, before removing Natalia Pervaiz for 33 to seal her outstanding spell of 3 for 20.
Pakistan’s lone resistance came from Sidra Amin, who scored a fighting 81, but received little support from the rest of the line-up. Deepti Sharma also starred with the ball, bagging three wickets as Pakistan folded for 159 in 43 overs.
India’s fielding was sharp, with two run-outs contributing to the collapse and Renuka Singh setting the tone with early pressure. With this dominant win, India continues their strong campaign, having also beaten Sri Lanka in their tournament opener.
The result reinforces India’s credentials as top contenders, while Gaud’s bowling heroics earned her player-of-the-match honours.
