Colombo
As India prepare to face Pakistan in their second ICC Women’s World Cup match on Sunday (today), emotions are running high. Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana shared how intense the rivalry feels. “Everyone you meet tells you to win,” she said, adding that such pressure often brings out the best in players.
India started their World Cup with a 59-run win against Sri Lanka in a rain-hit match. Pakistan, however, lost their first game to Bangladesh by seven wickets, making this weekend’s match crucial.
Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who has played many India–Pakistan games, said these matches are always special. “We treat it like any other game, but it does mean more,” she said.
All-rounder Deepti Sharma echoed this, saying the excitement is always greater when facing Pakistan.
Pakistan captain Fatima Sana recalled fond memories from their last World Cup meeting. “The Indian team was so warm after the game. It showed the respect between both teams,” she said.
Confident in her squad, Fatima praised players like Mandhana and Harmanpreet, calling the Indian team strong. “We’ll aim to play our best cricket,” she said. Fans across both nations eagerly await what promises to be a thrilling encounter