Drenched Dreams, High Stakes: New Zealand and Pakistan eye survival

On Tuesday and Wednesday, New Zealand and Pakistan were both at the receiving end of Mother Nature’s whims. Persistent rain in Colombo forced the abandonment of their respective matches, leaving both sides frustrated, though for very different reasons.

New Zealand might have breathed a sigh of relief after being spared a tricky run chase of 259 against Sri Lanka. Pakistan, however, were left ruing their luck. They were in a commanding position to record their first-ever World Cup win over England when rain cruelly intervened.

Now, as the two sides prepare to face off on Saturday at the same rain-hit venue, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Both teams are desperately seeking a win to keep their semi-final hopes alive. Pakistan remain winless and languish in the bottom half of the table, while New Zealand have just one victory to their name. With only three league matches left, it’s truly a do-or-die situation for both sides.

For New Zealand captain Sophie Devine and Pakistan skipper Fatima Sana, this clash is a virtual knockout. The contest promises to be a gripping battle between New Zealand’s batters and Pakistan’s bowlers. Despite boasting stalwarts like Suzie Bates and Amelia Kerr, the White Ferns’ batting has failed to click so far. They will be eager to rediscover their rhythm against Pakistan’s disciplined attack.

Fatima Sana, leading from the front, has displayed commendable maturity with the ball. Supported by the spin trio of Sadia Iqbal, Nashra Sandhu, and Rameen Shamim, Pakistan’s bowling unit has impressed with its control and consistency.

A defeat here would end Pakistan’s World Cup campaign, while a win for New Zealand could significantly strengthen their chances of joining defending champions Australia in the semi-finals.

Pakistan have never beaten New Zealand in World Cups. Can Fatima’s team script history this time? Or will the White Ferns extend their unbeaten record? The answers await in Colombo — weather permitting.

 

Head-to-Head

Overall: New Zealand – 15, Pakistan – 1

At World Cups: New Zealand – 4, Pakistan – 0

ICC ODI Rankings: New Zealand – 5, Pakistan – 8

 

 

Squads

New Zealand: Sophie Devine (c), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze (wicket-keeper), Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis (wicket-keeper), Bella James, Amelia Kerr, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Georgia Plimmer, Lea Tahuhu

Pakistan: Fatima Sana (c), Muneeba Ali Siddiqui (vc), Aliya Riaz, Diana Baig, Eyman Fatima, Nashra Sundhu, Natalia Parvaiz, Omaima Sohail, Rameen Shamim, Sadaf Shamas, Sadia Iqbal, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Sidra Amin, Sidra Nawaz, Syeda Aroob Shah

 

 

Players to watch out

Sophie Devine: The New Zealand skipper is in red-hot form, having crossed the 50-run mark in all three matches of this World Cup so far. Her consistency and aggressive intent make her the cornerstone of the White Ferns’ batting lineup.

Jess Kerr: The right-arm seamer has been exceptional with the ball, delivering across all phases of the innings. Whether it’s striking early with the new ball or containing runs in the death overs, Kerr’s control and variations have been key to New Zealand’s bowling plans.

Fatima Sana: Leading from the front, the Pakistan captain has been her team’s standout performer with the ball. The top wicket-taker for her side in this World Cup, Fatima has impressed with her ability to pick crucial wickets and maintain pressure through disciplined spells.

Sidra Amin: Pakistan’s most experienced batter has once again been the backbone of their batting unit. Head and shoulders above the rest in terms of runs scored, Sidra’s calm approach and knack for anchoring the innings make her vital to Pakistan’s chances.

 

 

Match details

Date: October 18, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM
Venue: R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo

Live streaming: Star Sports Network, JioHotstar