India Crush Pakistan by 88 Runs, Extend Winning Streak

India put on a commanding performance against Pakistan, sealing an emphatic 88-run victory to top the table in the Women's World Cup clash in Colombo. On a slow pitch, eight Indian batters reached double figures, with Harleen Deol’s 46 being the highest contribution. India posted a competitive total of 247, and that proved more than enough as Kranti Gaud’s brilliant 3 for 20 led the bowling attack, dismissing Pakistan for 159. Sidra Amin fought a lone battle with a resilient 81, but Pakistan lacked support from the other end as India stretched their unbeaten ODI streak against their arch-rivals to 12 matches.

After Pakistan opted to field first, openers Pratika Rawal and Smriti Mandhana provided a solid start with regular boundaries. Despite a mid-innings slowdown and a few quick wickets, Harleen Deol and Jemimah Rodrigues rebuilt the innings with smart rotation of strike and timely boundaries. India faced interruptions due to pest fumigation but recovered well in the final overs, thanks to a powerful cameo from Richa Ghosh (hitting two sixes and multiple boundaries), which pushed the total close to 250.

Pakistan’s chase started cautiously with tight bowling from Renuka Thakur and Gaud, restricting runs in the powerplay. A run-out and early wickets increased the pressure, and despite Amin’s determined effort, Pakistan never looked in control. Gaud’s disciplined spell included key breakthroughs, while India’s spinners chipped away with regular wickets to keep the scoring rate under check.

The lower order collapsed as India’s bowlers tightened their grip, with Deepti Sharma and Sneh Rana striking crucial blows. Pakistan’s innings eventually folded for 159, handing India a dominant win and keeping their perfect record intact. The victory not only strengthened India’s campaign in the tournament but also highlighted their balanced team effort with both bat and ball.