Pakistan were denied a historic victory after rain washed out their Women’s World Cup 2025 clash against England in Colombo on Wednesday. Fatima Sana starred with the ball, taking 4 for 27 as Pakistan reduced England to 133/9 in a rain-shortened 31-over match, but persistent showers prevented them from completing what looked set to be their first-ever World Cup win.
Just a week after dismantling Australia’s top order, Pakistan once again dominated with both pace and spin. Diana Baig gave Pakistan the perfect start by bowling Tammy Beaumont in her opening over. Fatima Sana then ripped through England’s middle order, removing Amy Jones, Heather Knight, and Nat Sciver-Brunt in quick succession to leave the defending champions reeling at 22 for 4.
Spin continued the damage as Sadia Iqbal dismissed Emma Lamb before Sophia Dunkley fell to a successful DRS review after being trapped sweeping. Nashra Sandhu bowled a tight seven-over spell, while Rameen Shamim broke a stubborn partnership by trapping Alice Capsey in front as England’s struggles deepened.
After a long rain delay that cut the game to 31 overs per side, England’s lower order added some resistance through Charlie Dean (33) and Em Arlott, but both fell late as Pakistan maintained control.
Set a revised target of 113, Pakistan made a strong start, reaching 34 without loss in 6.4 overs before rain returned to end the match. Omaima Sohail looked in fine touch with an unbeaten 19 off 18 balls, while Muneeba Ali played cautiously at the other end.
Despite the no result, Pakistan’s dominant performance against two of the tournament’s strongest teams — Australia and England — has boosted their confidence going forward in the competition.
Brief scores:
England 133/9 in 31 overs (Charlie Dean 33; Fatima Sana 4-27, Sadia Iqbal 2-16)
Pakistan 34/0 in 6.4 overs (Omaima Sohail 19*)
Result: No result (match abandoned due to rain)