The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 got off to an electrifying start as India defeated Sri Lanka in their opening match. Held at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, this contest set the tone for what promises to be a thrilling tournament. With a display of skill, resilience, and strategy, India showcased why they are considered one of the favorites in the tournament.

Match Overview

India, winning the toss, chose to bat first under challenging conditions due to intermittent rain. The match was reduced to 47 overs per side, yet it did not dampen the excitement. India posted a total of 269/8, thanks to significant contributions from Deepti Sharma and Amanjot Kaur.

Sri Lanka, in reply, started strongly with their openers Chamari Athapaththu and Harshitha Samarawickrama providing early resistance. However, the Indian bowlers, led by Deepti Sharma and Sneh Rana, steadily pegged them back, eventually restricting Sri Lanka to 211 runs, resulting in a comfortable 59-run victory for India.

India’s Batting Performance

India faced an early challenge as wickets fell at regular intervals, putting pressure on the middle order. Deepti Sharma rose to the occasion with a composed 53 runs off 53 balls. Her partnership with Amanjot Kaur, who scored 57 runs off 56 balls, was the backbone of India’s innings. Together, they stitched a 103-run partnership that stabilized the innings.

Sneh Rana’s quickfire 28 off just 15 balls accelerated the scoring in the final overs. Her combination of boundaries and calculated aggression ensured India crossed the 260-run mark, setting a competitive target for the Sri Lankan side.

The batting approach highlighted India’s depth, showcasing the team’s ability to recover from early setbacks and maintain pressure on the opposition.

Sri Lanka’s Response

Sri Lanka’s innings began with promise as Chamari Athapaththu and Harshitha Samarawickrama put together a 52-run opening partnership. Both batters looked confident, playing positive cricket and rotating the strike efficiently.

However, India’s spinners, led by Deepti Sharma, turned the tide. Deepti’s figures of 3/54 proved decisive, while Sneh Rana and Shree Charani chipped in with crucial wickets. Sri Lanka’s middle order collapsed under pressure, and they were eventually bowled out for 211 in 45.4 overs.

The Indian bowling strategy, combining pace upfront and spin in the middle overs, demonstrated tactical brilliance and adaptability in varying pitch conditions.

Key Performers

Deepti Sharma

Deepti Sharma was the standout performer of the match. Her all-round performance included a composed half-century and three vital wickets, earning her the Player of the Match award. Her ability to contribute in both departments made a decisive impact on India’s victory.

Amanjot Kaur

Amanjot Kaur anchored the innings alongside Deepti Sharma, providing stability when the team needed it most. Her measured aggression and excellent running between the wickets were key to building India’s total.

Sneh Rana

Sneh Rana provided the finishing touches with a quick 28-run cameo and also contributed with the ball, keeping the scoring in check and creating pressure that led to wickets at crucial stages.

Shree Charani

Shree Charani supported the spin attack effectively, taking key wickets and restricting the Sri Lankan batters from accelerating the innings during the middle overs.

Tactical Analysis

India’s strategy revolved around building partnerships and applying constant pressure on the Sri Lankan team. Batting first allowed them to set a target and put the opposition on the back foot. The combination of experienced players like Deepti Sharma and young talents like Amanjot Kaur illustrated a well-balanced side.

In bowling, India effectively used spin to exploit the slow nature of the pitch, while pace bowlers ensured breakthroughs in the initial overs. The use of spinners in the middle overs proved particularly effective, choking runs and forcing wickets.

Historical Significance

This victory marks a strong start for India in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025. The match also set a record for attendance at a women’s cricket match in India, with 22,843 spectators at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, surpassing previous records. The enthusiastic crowd created an electric atmosphere, signaling growing support for women’s cricket in India.

Winning the opening match is crucial in a World Cup format, as it boosts team morale, provides momentum, and sets the tone for upcoming fixtures. India’s performance highlighted the depth of talent and readiness to challenge for the title.

Captain’s Perspective

Harmanpreet Kaur, India’s captain, praised the team’s performance, emphasizing resilience and adaptability. She highlighted the strength of the team’s batting depth, stating, “Having batting till number seven (eight) is the biggest strength for us.”

Her leadership and strategic decisions, including team composition and bowling changes, played a crucial role in guiding India to victory.

Looking Ahead

India now faces Pakistan in their next group stage match on October 2, 2025. Maintaining momentum will be key, as the team looks to continue its winning run and aim for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup title. Analysts believe that consistent performances from the top and middle order, combined with an effective bowling strategy, will be critical in upcoming matches.

For Sri Lanka, the focus will be on recovering from this loss, improving middle-order stability, and handling pressure situations better in their upcoming games.

Fan Reactions and Impact

The match drew significant attention from cricket fans across India. Social media buzzed with praise for Deepti Sharma’s performance and strategic gameplay. Fans also appreciated the growing popularity of women’s cricket and the increasing recognition of players’ skills at international tournaments.

This opening match has not only ignited excitement for the tournament but also reinforced the importance of investing in women’s sports and promoting equal opportunities for female athletes.

Conclusion

India’s win over Sri Lanka in the opening match of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 was a testament to their preparation, skill, and teamwork. With an all-round performance from Deepti Sharma and consistent contributions from Amanjot Kaur, Sneh Rana, and other key players, India began the tournament on a high note.

As the tournament progresses, fans can expect more thrilling matches, exceptional performances, and historic moments. India’s strong start lays the foundation for a promising campaign, signaling that the team is a serious contender for the title.

The Women’s World Cup 2025 promises excitement, drama, and incredible cricketing displays, and India’s triumph in the first match is just the beginning of an exhilarating journey for fans and players alike.