The 16th match of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, held on October 15 at Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium, saw a gripping encounter between England Women and Pakistan Women. Pakistan captain Fatima Sana won the toss and chose to field first under slightly overcast conditions. England, unbeaten so far in the tournament, started their innings with high expectations, but Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack made it challenging from the outset. This clash showcased some stellar performances, with Fatima Sana emerging as the protagonist, particularly with a sensational bowling moment that stunned cricket fans worldwide.
Fatima Sana’s peach of a delivery dismisses Nat Sciver-Brunt in World Cup game
The first delivery of the seventh over, shining as a moment to remember, swung sharply in, completely deceiving Sciver-Brunt who attempted an aggressive cut shot. The ball narrowly flicked the bottom of her glove before crashing into the stumps, eliciting gasps from spectators and creating extraordinary scenes on the field.
This wicket was reminiscent of a previous stunning dismissal by Sana earlier in the innings, reinforcing her dominance and control in the game. At that point England was reeling at 38 for 3, with Sana’s figures reading 3.1 overs, 1 maiden, 13 runs, and 2 crucial wickets. Her disciplined seam bowling and ability to swing the ball consistently put Pakistan in the driving seat early on in the game.
Here’s the video:
Fatima Sana gets another and wins the battle between the skippers and Nat Sciver-Brunt has to depart 💪
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— ICC (@ICC) October 15, 2025
England’s batting line-up falters against disciplined Pakistan attack
Pakistan won the toss and chose to field first, a decision that immediately put pressure on England’s batters. The match had a delayed start due to rain, but once underway, Pakistan’s bowling attack, led by Fatima, ensured England struggled to build any momentum.
The English top order collapsed with seven wickets down for just 79 runs in 25 overs, fighting hard but failing to penetrate Pakistan’s disciplined bowling. Alongside Sana, bowlers Sadia Iqbal and Diana Baig made vital breakthroughs, with Sadia taking key wickets including that of Sophia Dunkley and Emma Lamb. England’s Amy Jones and Tammy Beaumont were dismissed cheaply, leaving the innings in disarray. The middle and lower order tried to resist, but the constant pressure and swing bowling ensured no significant partnerships were formed. By the time rain intervened, England was at 79/7, with just a few batters remaining to see if they could salvage the innings.
The match narrative was defined by fatigue in England’s batting and clinical execution from Pakistan’s bowlers, punctuated by Sana’s breathtaking deliveries which continuously troubled the batters. Her ability to swing the ball both ways and maintain tight lines allowed Pakistan to maintain control despite the interruptions from rain. The Pakistani fielding unit supported their bowlers well, making run-saving stops and exerting pressure on the already fragile English batting order. This match added a thrilling chapter to the Women’s World Cup 2025 as Pakistan showed determination and skill, while England faced the challenge of regrouping after a testing innings.
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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
