Post by : Mumtaaz
Qadiri
India’s Women’s Cricket Team kicked off their ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 campaign in front of home fans at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. The opening clash was against Sri Lanka, a team making its return to the World Cup after missing the 2022 edition. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as cricket fans anticipated a strong start from India, who are seen as one of the favorites to lift the trophy on home soil.
Sri Lanka Wins Toss and Bowls First
Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu won the toss and chose to bowl, a decision that set the tone for an early challenge. She explained her choice by noting that while the pitch was good for batting, dew in the evening could make bowling difficult later. This decision added an extra layer of intrigue to the contest, as both teams knew the opening overs would be crucial in shaping the match’s momentum.
India Fields a Spin-Heavy Line-Up
India entered the match with a carefully planned line-up. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur emphasized spin as the team’s strength, fielding three spinners alongside two pace bowlers. The squad reflected a blend of youth and experience, with big names such as Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur in the batting line-up, supported by Jemimah Rodrigues and Richa Ghosh. India’s selection clearly showed a strategy built around exploiting home conditions.
Early Breakthrough for Sri Lanka
India’s innings started with steady play, as openers Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal looked to build a solid foundation. Mandhana, one of India’s most dependable batters, struck a couple of early boundaries, lifting the crowd’s spirits. However, in the third over, Sri Lanka’s left-arm seamer Udeshika Prabodhani struck a big blow, dismissing Mandhana for just 8 runs off 10 balls. This early breakthrough left India at 13/1, putting pressure on the remaining batters. Rawal stayed at the crease with 5 runs, determined to stabilize the innings.
Sri Lanka’s Return After 2022 Absence
For Sri Lanka, this World Cup marks a significant return after not qualifying for the 2022 edition. The team came prepared to make a strong statement, relying on the leadership of Chamari Athapaththu and the contributions of experienced players like Hasini Perera and Inoka Ranaweera. Their bowling unit, particularly the pace attack led by Prabodhani, looked ready to challenge India’s star-studded batting order.
India’s Maiden World Cup Ambition
India’s Women’s Cricket Team has consistently performed well in global tournaments but is yet to win a Women’s World Cup. Playing at home in 2025 provides a golden opportunity to change history. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur and her teammates have expressed confidence in their ability to deliver under pressure. The inclusion of emerging talents like Kranti Goud and Shree Charani adds depth to the squad, giving India multiple options in both batting and bowling.
Playing XI of Both Teams
The playing XI for India included Smriti Mandhana, Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Harmanpreet Kaur (captain), Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh (wicketkeeper), Deepti Sharma, Amanjot Kaur, Sneh Rana, Kranti Goud, and Shree Charani.
Sri Lanka fielded Chamari Athapaththu (captain), Hasini Perera, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Vishmi Gunaratne, Kavisha Dilhari, Nilakshi de Silva, Anushka Sanjeewani (wicketkeeper), Achini Kulasuriya, Sugandika Kumari, Udeshika Prabodhani, and Inoka Ranaweera.
Both teams featured a mix of youth and experience, creating balance and promising competitive cricket throughout the tournament.
High Hopes and Fan Excitement
Fans in Guwahati filled the stadium with chants and applause, setting the stage for an electrifying World Cup opener. Across India, millions tuned in to watch the game live on television and digital platforms. The excitement reflected the growing support for women’s cricket in the country, as many young girls looked up to stars like Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana as role models.
The match carried significance beyond the scoreboard. For India, it was about making a statement as hosts and serious contenders for the title. For Sri Lanka, it was about proving their comeback on the world stage. Both teams approached the game with determination, aiming to set the tone for their campaigns. The competitive start highlighted that the Women’s World Cup 2025 would be a thrilling tournament filled with talent, strategy, and passion.
The India vs Sri Lanka opener in Guwahati has already provided fans with drama, strategy, and excitement. With an early wicket falling to Sri Lanka, India’s middle order faced pressure to deliver, while Sri Lanka looked motivated to spoil the hosts’ party. As the tournament unfolds, this opening clash will be remembered as a fitting beginning to what promises to be an unforgettable ICC Women’s World Cup 2025.
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