The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup continues with a crucial Group Stage encounter as Sri Lanka Women take on Pakistan Women at the historic R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo on 24th October. The match begins at 15:00 IST (converted from the UK start time of 10:30). Both sides are battling to strengthen their positions in the standings, with Sri Lanka’s home advantage up against Pakistan’s disciplined, all-round game in what promises to be a tactical and hard-fought contest under Colombo’s humid skies.
Form Guide
Sri Lanka Women
Sri Lanka Women have shown glimpses of their potential throughout the tournament, blending spin dominance with aggressive intent from their top order. Their performances at home have been built on familiarity with slower pitches and strong middle-overs control. Consistency with the bat remains an area to improve, but their bowlers—particularly the spinners—continue to pose significant threats in subcontinental conditions.
- Spin-heavy attack suited perfectly to Colombo’s turning pitches.
- Dependable top order led by experienced campaigners who thrive in familiar conditions.
- Fielding intensity improving, though catching remains an occasional issue.
Pakistan Women
Pakistan Women have built a reputation for composure and teamwork, excelling in low-scoring, attritional matches. Their batting has seen gradual improvement, with a solid top order capable of handling spin, while their bowling attack—anchored by skilful seamers and accurate slow bowlers—often dictates tempo. Playing in Sri Lanka’s humid conditions will challenge their adaptability, but their recent record suggests growing confidence away from home.
- Reliable bowling attack led by disciplined seamers and quality slow-bowling options.
- Batting lineup with players capable of rotating strike effectively against spin.
- Team culture centred on pressure-building and defensive solidity rather than outright aggression.
Key Players
Sri Lanka Women
- Chamari Athapaththu – The skipper remains Sri Lanka’s talisman; her explosive batting and handy off-spin can change games in minutes.
- Harshitha Samarawickrama – Elegant left-hander who provides stability in the top order, key for setting up competitive totals.
- Inoka Ranaweera – Veteran left-arm spinner with control and variation; vital to stifling Pakistan’s middle order.
Pakistan Women
- Nida Dar – Inspirational leader and premier all-rounder; her off-spin and late-order hitting make her Pakistan’s biggest asset.
- Sidra Ameen – Consistent top-order batter who plays spin well and anchors innings during tricky phases.
- Fatima Sana – Dynamic seam-bowling all-rounder who offers swing with the new ball and valuable lower-order runs.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The R. Premadasa Stadium surface is traditionally slow and conducive to spin, rewarding bowlers who vary pace and flight. Early in the innings, the new ball might grip slightly before flattening out, offering steady batting conditions. Teams batting first often aim for totals around 230–250, with dew occasionally making the ball skid under lights. Humidity will be high—near 80%—with temperatures hovering around 31°C, ensuring that fitness and fielding efficiency play major roles in the outcome.
Sri Lanka Women vs Pakistan Women – Prediction
This fixture is finely balanced, but home conditions favour Sri Lanka. If Chamari Athapaththu finds her rhythm and Inoka Ranaweera strikes through the middle overs, the hosts should control proceedings. Pakistan will look to Nida Dar and Fatima Sana to respond with all-round efforts, while Sidra Ameen remains central to their batting hopes. Expect a tight, spin-dominated contest, but Sri Lanka’s experience in these conditions could see them edge a low-to-moderate scoring match.
Dream 11 Fantasy Picks
- Chamari Athapaththu – Star all-rounder and ideal captaincy pick given her dual impact potential.
- Nida Dar – Consistent performer who contributes with both bat and ball; excellent for all-round points.
- Inoka Ranaweera – Key spin option likely to profit from turning conditions in Colombo.
