By Asif Naveed
Web Desk; Cricket will once again be played against a politically charged backdrop as arch-rivals India and Pakistan face off in their highly anticipated group-stage match of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. The clash is scheduled for Sunday (today), October 5, at 09:30 GMT at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
The encounter is expected to generate immense interest not only for the on-field action but also for the off-field dynamics, particularly after the recent controversy surrounding the men’s Asia Cup 2025. During that tournament, Indian players notably refrained from shaking hands with their Pakistani counterparts after all three matches, sparking widespread criticism and overshadowing the cricket.
This time, similar questions have emerged over whether the traditional pre- and post-match handshakes will take place. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia told BBC’s Stumped podcast that he could not confirm if handshakes or customary interactions would happen, noting that India’s stance toward Pakistan “has not changed in the last week.”
Despite the surrounding noise, both teams have expressed their desire to focus on cricket. Pakistan captain Fatima Sana, speaking on Saturday, said the team was determined to concentrate on their World Cup campaign. “Obviously, we know what’s happening around us, but we try to stay focused on the game because the World Cup is an event every player waits for,” she said. Pakistan is looking to bounce back after their defeat to Bangladesh in the opening match.
The last Women’s World Cup encounter between the two sides in 2022 was remembered for its warmth and camaraderie, when Indian players gathered around then-captain Bismah Maroof and her infant daughter, creating heartwarming scenes that went viral. Sana, part of that squad, said such moments are cherished but emphasized that “the main thing is to stay focused on the game.”
India’s bowling coach Aavishankar Salvi declined to comment on the handshake issue but stressed that his side’s attention remains on cricket. “We want our girls to take it just as a game because the World Cup is a long campaign,” he said. India began their tournament with a comfortable 59-run win over Sri Lanka.
The match is expected to draw massive television audiences, and a large crowd is anticipated at the Colombo stadium. Sana acknowledged the pressure associated with the high-profile clash, adding that “the whole world will be watching.” She said Pakistan would focus on executing their plans and playing according to their preparation.
