Pakistan won the toss and chose to bat first against Bangladesh in the third match of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. The game is being played at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Both teams are set for a highly anticipated clash as they start their World Cup campaigns.
Historically, Pakistan and Bangladesh have faced each other 16 times in Women’s One Day Internationals (ODIs). Both sides have an equal record, with eight wins each. This makes their meetings highly competitive and unpredictable. The last encounter came in the World Cup Qualifier, where the host team won by seven wickets.
Pakistan’s squad for this match includes:
Muneeba Ali, Omaima Sohail, Sidra Amin, Aliya Riaz, Natalia Parvaiz, and captain Fatima Sana. The wicketkeeper is Sidra Nawaz. The bowling lineup features Rameen Shamim, Nashra Sundhu, Diana Baig, and Sadia Iqbal.
Bangladesh’s squad has been named:
Farqana Hoque, Rubya Haider, Sharmin Akhter, and captain Nigar Sultana (wk) in their playing eleven. Other key players include Sobhana Mostary, Shorna Akter, Fahima Khatun, Nahida Akter, Rabeya Khan, Marufa Akter, and Nishita Akter.
Both teams come into this match with similar form. Pakistan has won three out of their last five ODIs, including a perfect record in the World Cup Qualifier.
While, Bangladesh has also secured three wins in their previous five completed ODIs. Pakistan hosted South Africa for a three-match series before the World Cup, losing 2-1, which gave them some match practice ahead of the tournament.
The toss decision to bat first is likely influenced by the pitch conditions at Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium. Early batting can take advantage of a relatively flat surface, while spin-friendly conditions may develop later in the match. Pakistan’s captain, Fatima Sana, will rely on her experienced batting lineup to set a strong total. Bangladesh will aim to break early partnerships and apply pressure through disciplined bowling.
This match is crucial for both teams to gain momentum in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. A strong start could shape their tournament campaigns and boost confidence in this highly competitive event. Fans in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and other cricket-loving nations are eagerly following this game.
