Colombo: The ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 match between New Zealand and Pakistan is scheduled for today, October 18, 2025, at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The match will start at 3:00 PM IST, with the toss taking place at 2:30 PM IST. Fans can watch the match live on Star Sports Network or stream it online via JioHotstar.
Weather Update
Colombo is expected to witness humid and partly cloudy conditions throughout the match. Temperatures are forecasted around 30°C, with chances of rain that could briefly interrupt play. Such weather might slow the outfield, giving bowlers an advantage, and could influence the strategies of both teams during the chase or while setting a total.
Pitch Report
The R. Premadasa Stadium pitch is considered balanced but favors spin bowlers, especially as the match progresses. Batters will need to rotate strike carefully, while spinners from both sides are likely to play a decisive role. Historically, the pitch can support high-scoring games, but controlling the middle overs and handling turning deliveries will be key for both teams.
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Latest Team Form & Key Players
New Zealand Women have gained confidence after a strong win against Bangladesh by 100 runs. Key players include Sophie Devine, Suzie Bates, Amelia Kerr, Maddy Green, Katey Martin, Hayley Jensen, Rosemary Mair, Fran Jonas, Eden Carson, Jess Kerr, and Lea Tahuhu. Devine leads the batting charts, Lea Tahuhu has been effective with the ball, and Amelia Kerr provides vital balance as an all-rounder.
Pakistan Women have struggled in the tournament but aim to bounce back. Important players to watch are Fatima Sana, Muneeba Ali, Sidra Ameen, Nida Dar, Omaima Sohail, Aliya Riaz, Iram Javed, Sadaf Shamas, Nashra Sandhu, Tuba Hassan, and Aroob Shah. Fatima Sana impressed in the previous match with three wickets, Sidra Ameen has been consistent at the top of the order, and Nida Dar adds experience to both batting and bowling departments.
Match Prediction
Based on current form and team strength, New Zealand is favored to win due to their depth in both batting and bowling and experience in handling high-pressure encounters. However, Pakistan could create an upset if their top-order batters perform and spinners exploit the pitch conditions effectively. This clash promises a competitive and thrilling encounter.