Pakistan Opts to Bowl Against India, No Handshake Marks Tense Women’s World Cup Match in Sri Lanka

In the ICC Women's World Cup 2025 match held in Colombo, Pakistan captain Fatima Sana won the toss and elected to bowl against India, continuing the tense cricket rivalry between the two nations. The customary handshake between captains was notably absent, following a directive by the Indian team in response to ongoing political and security tensions, including accusations against Pakistan related to terrorist attacks on Indian tourists. India, holding an undefeated 11-0 record against Pakistan in ODIs, made a lineup change due to Amanjot Kaur's illness, with Renuka Singh Thakur stepping in. Pakistan also made one change, bringing in Sadaf Shamas for Omaima Sohail. The political strain has spilled over into sportsmanship, as seen in previous men's matches and reflected in this women's game, underscoring the deep-rooted hostility between the neighbors. Both teams approached the match with focus despite the charged atmosphere, with Pakistan hoping to leverage the bowling conditions and India aiming to extend their dominance.