On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, Australia Women powered to a 107‑run victory over Pakistan Women at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The match was part of the ICC Women's World Cup 2025Sri Lanka, and the result pushed the Australian side further ahead as tournament favorites.
Match Overview
The game kicked off at 03:00 PM local time under clear skies, with temperatures hovering just above 30 °C. After winning the toss, Fatima Sana, captain of Pakistan Women, elected to bowl first – a decision that mirrored pre‑match pundit chatter.
Australia posted 221/9 in their full 50 overs, anchored by a blistering 76 from Ashleigh Gardner. Pakistan’s chase crumbled at 114 all out in 36.3 overs, with Sidra Amin top‑scoring with 28 runs.
Key Performances
Ashleigh Gardner turned the innings on its head, striking 76 off 54 balls. Her innings featured twelve fours and three sixes, pushing the run‑rate past seven per over in the latter half.
- Gardner’s 76 made her the tournament’s second‑highest run‑scorer after a single innings, averaging 115.00.
- Alyssa Healy contributed a brisk 38* as wicket‑keeper‑captain, steering the side through the final powerplay.
- Fast bowler Darcie Brown claimed 3/22, breaking the back of Pakistan’s middle order.
On the other side, Diana Baig fought hard, taking 2/34, but lacked support as the Australian batters rotated the strike effortlessly.
Toss and Strategy
The decision to bowl first was based on early‑morning moisture predictions that suggested the ball would swing. In reality, the dry out‑field and a flat pitch offered little assistance, allowing Australia’s openers to settle and build a solid platform.
Pakistan’s plan to chase under lights also back‑fired; the dew that was expected to aid the batters never materialised, leaving the side to battle a disciplined Australian fielding unit that saved 12 runs in the outfield.
Expert Predictions vs Reality
Before kick‑off, analysts at WomenCricket.com pegged Australia’s powerplay at 70‑80 runs and envisioned a total between 320‑330. The actual 221/9 fell well short of those lofty numbers, highlighting the restraining effect of a disciplined bowling attack and the reality of a spin‑friendly surface.
Yet, the margin of victory – 107 runs – exceeded many forecasts. As TheStatsZone.com noted, the Aussies never needed to hit a mammoth total; a well‑balanced total paired with incisive bowling was enough to seal the win.
Implications for the Tournament
Australia’s triumph keeps their unbeaten streak alive and solidifies their position at the top of Group A. With a net run rate now comfortably above +2.5, they can afford a modest slip in the next match without jeopardising a semi‑final berth.
For Pakistan, the loss marks a third consecutive defeat, leaving them languishing at the bottom of the group. The side will need to regroup quickly ahead of their upcoming clash with Sri Lanka Women, where a rain‑affected game could offer a lifeline.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
Australia will face England Women in their next Group A encounter on October 12. That match is billed as a potential "final rehearsal" for the eventual championship showdown.
Pakistan, meanwhile, must scramble to find a formula that works against stronger opposition. Coach Humaima Qadir has hinted at a batting order shuffle, promoting Aliya Riaz to open alongside Muneeba Ali in hopes of providing a steadier start.
Key Facts
- Result: Australia Women 221/9 (50 overs) beat Pakistan Women 114 (36.3 overs) – 107 runs.
- Top scorer: Ashleigh Gardner – 76 runs.
- Best bowler: Darcie Brown – 3/22.
- Venue: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo.
- Event: ICC Women's World Cup 2025, Group A match 9.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this win affect Australia’s chances of reaching the World Cup final?
The victory pushes Australia to the top of Group A with a superior net‑run‑rate, meaning they can afford a minor slip in the next game and still secure a semi‑final spot. Their unbeaten record also gives them a psychological edge over all opponents.
What were the main reasons Pakistan struggled in this match?
A combination of a dry pitch offering little swing, disciplined Australian bowling, and a fragile top order contributed to Pakistan’s collapse. Their key batter, Sidra Amin, managed only 28 runs, and the lack of partnerships amplified the pressure.
Who stood out for Australia besides Ashleigh Gardner?
Alyssa Healy’s quick‑fire 38* at the tail, Darcie Brown’s three‑wicket spell, and Ellyse Perry’s steady contribution of 42 runs provided the depth that turned a modest total into a winning one.
When and where can fans watch Australia’s next match?
Australia faces England Women on October 12, 2025, at the same venue – R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The game will be televised live on SonyLIV in India, Sky Sports in the UK, and Willow TV in the United States.
What does this defeat mean for Pakistan’s remaining World Cup fixtures?
Pakistan must win their next two group games to stay alive, a steep uphill task given their current form. The coaching staff is reportedly planning a batting order tweak and focusing on tighter bowling to keep matches competitive.
