Kranti and Deepti Seal Another Big Win Against Pakistan, In a riveting encounter at the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, India’s bowlers once again stamped their authority over arch-rivals Pakistan. Kranti Gaud and Deepti Sharma were at the heart of India’s bowling dominance, each claiming three crucial wickets, as Pakistan were bundled out for 159 in 43 overs, giving India a comfortable 88-run victory. The Week+3Cricbuzz+3The Times of India+3
Setting the Stage: India’s Batting Fight
Batting first on a tricky surface in Colombo, India made 247 (all out). None of the batters could convert starts into big scores, but Harleen Deol top-scored with 46 runs, supported by Jemimah Rodrigues (32) and a late flourish from Richa Ghosh (35*), whose brisk assault in the final overs added much-needed momentum. The Times of India+2The Week+2
Openers Pratika Rawal (31) and Smriti Mandhana (23) helped get India off to a steady start before Pakistan tightened the grip. The Times of India+2Mid-day+2
Pakistan’s Chase and India’s Bowling Brilliance
Chasing 248, Pakistan’s innings never truly gathered momentum. A top-order collapse left them in early trouble, with India’s disciplined bowling strangling any momentum. The Times of India+2Cricbuzz+2
Kranti Gaud bowled a disciplined spell of 10 overs, 3 wickets for 20 runs, including three maiden overs. Cricbuzz+2Mid-day+2
Deepti Sharma matched that impact with 3 for 45 in her 9 overs, breaking critical partnerships. The Week+3The Times of India+3Mid-day+3
Moreover, Shree Charani chipped in with 2 for 38, ensuring Pakistan had no path back. The Times of India+2Cricbuzz+2
Pakistan’s middle order saw resistance from Sidra Amin, who scored a gritty 81 off 106 balls, and Natalia Pervaiz (33). But with limited support around them, their effort fell short. Mid-day+2Cricbuzz+2
What This Win Means
- India remains unbeaten in their encounters with Pakistan in this World Cup, extending their head-to-head dominance. Mid-day+2Cricbuzz+2
- The balanced performance—early wickets, tight lines, and smart fielding—reinforced India’s position as strong contenders.
- The win propels India further up the tournament standings, boosting confidence ahead of tougher matchups.
Key Takeaways & Lessons
- Bowling wins matches: Kranti and Deepti’s twin three-wicket hauls were match-defining.
- Partnerships matter: India’s late innings stand with Ghosh revived momentum.
- Resilience under pressure: Pakistan showed fight through Amin, but India’s depth prevailed.
