The ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 began with high energy and anticipation as India faced Sri Lanka in the opening clash at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. Cricket fans from across the world tuned in to watch two competitive sides lock horns in a match that set the tone for the tournament. The day carried all the elements that make cricket so engaging—early nerves, batting collapses, determined partnerships, and the promise of a thrilling tournament ahead.
Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to bowl first on a surface that offered some assistance to the seamers. The decision immediately paid off when India’s star opener, Smriti Mandhana, was dismissed for just eight runs. The early wicket was a setback for India, especially given Mandhana’s reputation as one of the most dependable batters in women’s cricket. However, the dismissal did not completely derail India’s innings. Harleen Deol and debutant Pratika Rawal came together and steadied the ship with calm, calculated strokes. Their partnership ensured that India did not lose momentum in the powerplay overs.
Rain interruptions briefly added drama to the day, reducing the match to 48 overs per side. Despite the shortened format, the Indian batters showed intent to build a strong total. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur played a crucial role in rotating the strike and anchoring the innings, while the middle order chipped in with useful contributions. India’s strategy seemed clear: preserve wickets in the early stages and accelerate in the final 15 overs. By the halfway mark, India had managed to rebuild to a respectable score, giving their fans hope of a solid finish.
Sri Lanka, on the other hand, bowled with discipline and used the conditions well. Their fielding was sharp, and the bowlers maintained consistent pressure on the Indian batters. Spinners came into play in the middle overs, tightening the scoring rate and forcing India to take risks. This balanced bowling effort showed that Sri Lanka was well-prepared for the challenge, determined to begin their World Cup campaign with an upset.
Beyond the technicalities of the match, the opening game carried symbolic importance. Women’s cricket has grown tremendously in the last decade, and hosting the World Cup in India adds to its significance. The crowd turnout in Guwahati was enthusiastic, reflecting how the sport has captured the imagination of fans beyond traditional strongholds. For many young girls in the audience, this match was not just entertainment—it was inspiration.
As the tournament progresses, both India and Sri Lanka will look to learn from this opening fixture. India will focus on tightening their top-order batting while continuing to rely on their experienced middle order and strong bowling attack. Sri Lanka will take confidence from their disciplined performance, knowing they can challenge higher-ranked sides.
The 2025 Women’s World Cup promises to be one of the most competitive editions yet, with several teams capable of lifting the trophy. The India vs Sri Lanka opener was a fitting start, full of intensity and spirit, reminding the world that women’s cricket has truly arrived on the grand stage.
