A high-stakes clash awaits as India Women are set to take on Pakistan Women on October 5 in Colombo in the ongoing Women’s World Cup. The battle is going to be intensely competitive, with both regional rivalry and political turmoil looming large. Indian women’s team is reportedly likely to follow in the footsteps of their male counterparts by opting not to shake hands with the Pakistani players - a departure from traditional sportsmanship etiquette. This would mirror a recent act during the Asia Cup 2025, where Indian men chose not to shake hands with Pakistani players at the toss or after the match.

Meanwhile, India Women come into the match high on success. In their last outing, they delivered a dominant performance, defeating Sri Lanka Women by 59 runs (DLS). In contrast, Pakistan Women enter the contest after a disappointing loss to Bangladesh Women, a match in which their batting lineup failed to find rhythm and their bowlers struggled for consistency. Deciding to bat, Pakistan could muster 129 all out in 38.3 overs. Later, Bangladesh women chased down the target in 31.1 overs.

Notably, the match is crucial for both teams. A win for India would strengthen their position and boost their confidence heading further into the tournament. For Pakistan, it's a must-win game to revive their campaign.

Head-to-head

India and Pakistan women have played against each other 11 times in ODIs and India women have registered victories in all games.

PAK-W likely XI: Muneeba Ali, Omaima Sohail, Sidra Amin, Aliya Riaz, Sidra Nawaz (wk), Natalia Pervaiz, Fatima Sana (c), Rameen Shamim, Nashra Sandhu, Diana Baig, Sadia Iqbal

IND-W likely XI: Pratika Rawal, Smriti Mandhana, Harleen Deol, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh (wk), Deepti Sharma, Amanjot Kaur, Sneh Rana, Kranti Gaud, Shree Charani