In a high-stakes World Cup 2025 opener, India and Sri Lanka face off for a winning start. Can a dominant Indian side, led by the likes of Smriti Mandhana and Deepti Sharma, maintain its perfect record against a determined Sri Lankan team? This crucial match will set the tone for both teams' campaigns and be a massive confidence booster.
The wait is finally over, The ICC Women's World Cup 2025 is set to kick off in grand style with a blockbuster opening match between co-hosts India and Sri Lanka. For both teams, this isn't just a game; it's a chance to start their World Cup campaign with a crucial win and set a positive tone for the challenging tournament ahead.
Under the leadership of Harmanpreet Kaur, Team India comes into this tournament with high expectations. Their recent form has been impressive, and their squad boasts a perfect blend of experience and youthful exuberance. The batting lineup is a formidable one, with the explosive opening pair of Smriti Mandhana and the rising star Pratika Rawal expected to provide a flying start. Their solid partnership will be crucial in laying the foundation for big totals. The middle order is equally strong, with the dependable trio of Harleen Deol, Harmanpreet Kaur, and Jemimah Rodrigues providing stability and firepower. Behind the stumps, the dynamic Richa Ghosh adds another layer of aggression.
With the ball, India's attack is well-balanced and lethal. The crafty spin of Deepti Sharma will be a key weapon on the subcontinent pitches, while Renuka Singh Thakur's ability to swing the new ball will be a constant threat to the opposition. The experienced hands of Sneh Rana and the young pace of Arundhati Reddy provide depth and variety to the bowling unit.
On the other side, Sri Lanka, led by the charismatic Chamari Athapaththu, will be looking to pull off an upset. They have a fighting squad that knows how to punch above its weight. The team's batting relies heavily on the experience of players like Hasini Perera and Harshitha Samarawickrama, who will be key in a match of this magnitude. The middle order, with the likes of Vishmi Gunaratne, Kavisha Dilhari, and Nilakshi de Silva, will be crucial in providing depth and support.
Sri Lanka's bowling attack will be a test for India's powerful batting lineup. The new-ball responsibilities will likely fall to Udeshika Prabodhani and Sugandika Kumari, while the spin of veteran Inoka Ranaweera will be their main weapon in the middle overs.
This opening match promises to be a captivating contest. While India's historical dominance over Sri Lanka makes them the clear favourites, Sri Lanka's ability to spring a surprise cannot be underestimated. This is the first step on the road to World Cup glory, and both teams will be determined to make it a winning one.
IND W vs SL W Head-to-Head Records
When it comes to the head-to-head record in One-Day Internationals (ODIs), the rivalry between India and Sri Lanka's women's cricket teams is one-sided. India holds a dominant and long-standing advantage that will undoubtedly give it a psychological edge in the World Cup opener.
India and Sri Lanka have faced each other in 35 ODIs. In a heavily one-sided rivalry, India has emerged victorious on 31 occasions, while Sri Lanka has only managed to secure three wins. One match ended in a no result. With the momentum, history, and squad strength all on their side, India enters the match as the clear favourite—and they'll be aiming to extend their winning streak against a familiar rival. Let’s break down their head-to-head record to see who holds the edge ahead of the opener game, Women's World Cup 2025:
Total Matches Played: 35 (ODIs)
India Women Wins: 31
Sri Lanka Women Wins: 3
No Result/Abandoned Matches: 1
IND W: L W L W W
SL W: L L W W L
IND W vs SL W Match Predictions and Who Holds the Advantage?
In the opening match of the Women's World Cup 2025, India holds a significant advantage over Sri Lanka. Historically, India has a dominant ODI record, winning 31 out of 35 matches against Sri Lanka. India's top-order batting, led by the explosive Smriti Mandhana and young talent Pratika Rawal, is in phenomenal form. Their bowling attack, with the swing of Renuka Singh Thakur and the spin of Deepti Sharma, is also well-equipped to handle the conditions. While the experienced Chamari Athapaththu will lead Sri Lanka, their team has struggled with consistency. Given India's superior record, home advantage, and red-hot form, they are the overwhelming favourites to win and begin their World Cup campaign on a high.
India Women vs Sri Lanka Women Squad Injury Update:
No Injury concerns.
Match: IND W vs SL W 1st Match Women's World Cup 2025
Date: 30 September 2025
Time: 3:00 PM
Stadium: Barsapara Cricket Stadium
Location: Guwahati
ICC Women's World Cup 2025 opening game between India Women and Sri Lanka Women, will be played on 30 September at 3:00 PM in Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati. The Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati hosted a total of 3 ODI matches, 1 matches won batting first and 2 matches won batting 2nd and 0 match with no result. The pitch at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati is expected to favor the batsmen. Early on, fast bowlers may not experience significant seam movement, but as the game progresses, spinners could find some grip. Overall, it is typically a good surface for posting a competitive total. The captain winning the toss is likely to opt to bat first.
| T20 Stats | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Matches | 3 |
| Batting First Won | 1 |
| Bowling First Won | 2 |
| 1st Innings Average Score | 248 |
| 2nd Innings Average Score | 227 |
| Highest Total | 373/7 by IND vs SL |
| Lowest Total | 50/10 by ENGW vs INDW |
| Highest Chased | 326/2 by IND vs WI |
| Lowest Defended | 373/7 by IND vs SL |
India Women Squad:
Pratika Rawal, Smriti Mandhana, Harleen Deol, Harmanpreet Kaur(c), Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh(w), Deepti Sharma, Sneh Rana, Radha Yadav, Kranti Gaud, Renuka Singh Thakur, Arundhati Reddy, Amanjot Kaur, Uma Chetry, Shree Charani
Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunaratne, Chamari Athapaththu(c), Harshitha Samarawickrama, Anushka Sanjeewani(w), Kavisha Dilhari, Dewmi Vihanga, Achini Kulasuriya, Udeshika Prabodhani, Piumi Wathsala Badalge, Malki Madara, Inoka Ranaweera, Nilakshi de Silva, Sugandika Kumari, Imesha Dulani
As India gears up for their opening match of the Women's World Cup 2025, several star performers will be in the spotlight. With a mix of experienced campaigners and in-form match-winners, here are the key players who can make a big impact for India:.
Smriti Mandhana (The Lankan Slayer): Smriti Mandhana has consistently delivered against Sri Lanka, amassing a total of 614 runs in 16 matches at a superb average of 43.85. Her record includes 1 century and five half-centuries, making her one of the most reliable openers in world cricket. Known for her stylish stroke play and calm approach, Smriti will be vital in giving India a strong start at the top of the order.
Harmanpreet Kaur (The Middle Order Anchor): Leading from the front, Harmanpreet Kaur brings experience and composure to India's batting lineup. She has scored 371 runs in 14 ODI innings against Sri Lanka, averaging 28.53, with two crucial fifties. As captain, her role goes beyond the bat—she will be responsible for guiding the team through pressure moments and building key partnerships in the middle.
Deepti Sharma (Spin Wizard in the Middle Overs): One of India's most dependable all-rounders, Deepti Sharma, has enjoyed great success against Sri Lanka. In 14 matches, she has taken 24 wickets at a brilliant average of 17.29, with a best of 6/20. Her control, variations, and ability to strike in the middle overs make her a real threat on spin-friendly pitches.
Sneh Rana (The Early Breakthrough Specialist): Sneh Rana has proven to be a consistent wicket-taker against Sri Lanka, picking up 14 wickets in just six matches at an exceptional average of 12.64, including a best of 4/38. Her ability to make early inroads and break partnerships adds depth to India's bowling attack.
As Sri Lanka Women prepare to face a strong Indian side in the opening match of the Women's World Cup 2025, the spotlight will be on their senior players to deliver. With the experience of past battles and proven match-winning abilities, these two players will play a crucial role in shaping Sri Lanka's campaign.
Chamari Athapaththu (The Driving Force at the Top): Captain Chamari Athapaththu is the backbone of Sri Lanka's batting. With 464 runs in 18 innings against India at a strike rate of 60.73, including 1 century and two fifties, she carries the hopes of her team every time she walks to the crease. Chamari's ability to lead from the front and take on quality bowling attacks makes her Sri Lanka's biggest threat.
Inoka Ranaweera (The Middle-Overs Maestro): Veteran left-arm spinner Inoka Ranaweera has been a consistent performer with the ball. She has claimed 14 wickets in 12 matches against India, with best figures of 4/39. Her accuracy, control, and ability to break partnerships in the middle overs will be vital to Sri Lanka's bowling strategy.
Possible Playing 11 for India Women:
Pratika Rawal, Smriti Mandhana, Harleen Deol, Harmanpreet Kaur(c), Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh(w), Deepti Sharma, Sneh Rana, Radha Yadav, Kranti Gaud, Renuka Singh Thakur, Arundhati Reddy
Share this post
Six-hitting has become a defining part of ODI cricket, and the all-time leaders in this category are true game-changers. Players like Rohit Sharma, Shahid Afridi, Chris Gayle, and MS Dhoni have thrilled fans with their power and consistency. Their ability to clear the boundary under pressure has shaped many memorable matches. This list highlights the greatest six-hitters who left a lasting impact on one-day cricket.
Discover the top six-hitters in Test cricket for India! From Virender Sehwag to Rishabh Pant, explore how these fearless batters have revolutionized the longest format of the game with their mighty sixes. Learn about the most explosive innings, and how players like Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni have left their mark on Test cricket with unforgettable maximums.
India created history as Shafali Varma and Deepti Sharma powered the team to their maiden World Cup title in a thrilling final against Australia. Shafali, a replacement for injured Pratika Rawal, shone brightly to win Player of the Match. At the same time, Deepti's all-round brilliance — 22 wickets and 250 runs — earned her the Player of the Series honour—a golden moment for Indian women's cricket.
New Zealand captain Kane Williamson has officially announced his retirement from T20 internationals to focus on Tests and ODIs, ending a remarkable T20I career. In 93 matches, he scored 2,575 runs — the second-highest for New Zealand — and captained in 75 games, leading his team to the 2021 T20 World Cup Final. A calm leader, a true legend — Thank you, Kane Mama.
Power meets precision in T20I cricket's biggest six-hitters! From Rohit Sharma's record 227 sixes to Suryakumar Yadav's explosive 150, these power-packed performances have redefined modern cricket. Discover the fearless batters who've sent balls soaring out of stadiums and etched their names in history. Here's a thrilling look at the most sixes in T20I cricket history and the legends behind them.
ScoreWaves © 2025 Copyright. All Rights Reserved.
Views:
Download Our App
IOS
Google Play Store