India and Pakistan are set to face each other on October 5 in Colombo during the 2025 ICC Women’s ODI World Cup. Earlier this year, tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours reached alarming levels, with both militaries on high alert and diplomatic channels stretched thin.
The stand-off, sparked by cross-border incidents and aggressive political rhetoric, had many fearing a full-scale war. While things have since cooled slightly, relations remain fragile, and sport has once again become an unexpected casualty of geopolitics.
Hybrid Model Keeps Rivals Apart
Due to the political climate, the BCCI and PCB were forced to agree on a “hybrid hosting model” for the World Cup. A compromise that allows Pakistan to play all its matches in neutral Sri Lanka. This means the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan showdown will now take place at a neutral venue in Colombo.
According to the revised format, India’s women’s team, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, will travel to Colombo for the much-anticipated match against Pakistan. It’s a key group-stage game that fans on both sides of the border are watching closely.
The 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup begins on September 30 with India taking on Sri Lanka. The next day, Australia will clash with New Zealand in Indore. The eight teams play in a round-robin format, with the top four moving to the semifinals.
The first semifinal will be played on October 29 in either Guwahati or Colombo, depending on whether Pakistan qualifies. The second semifinal is set for October 30 in Bengaluru. The grand final will be held on November 2, either in Bengaluru or Colombo.
India’s Full Fixture List for Women’s World Cup 2025
India’s campaign will begin at home, but the team will also travel to neutral venues. Here are their confirmed fixtures:
• Sept 30 vs Sri Lanka – Bengaluru
• Oct 5 vs Pakistan – Colombo
• Oct 9 vs South Africa – Visakhapatnam
• Oct 12 vs Australia – Visakhapatnam
• Oct 19 vs England – Indore
• Oct 23 vs New Zealand – Guwahati
• Oct 26 vs Bangladesh – Bengaluru
Despite the challenges, the hybrid model ensures Pakistan’s participation while maintaining security and diplomatic balance. The highly anticipated India-Pakistan match will undoubtedly be one of the tournament’s biggest draws.
