The ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 kicked off in dramatic fashion as hosts India registered a comprehensive 59-run victory over Sri Lanka via the DLS method in a rain-curtailed opener in Guwahati on Tuesday.
All-rounder Deepti Sharma played a pivotal role, scoring a fluent half-century before taking three key wickets. Alongside her, Amanjot Kaur delivered a gritty 57 that proved vital in India’s recovery after a shaky start. Together, they ensured India’s campaign began with momentum and belief.
Match Recap: How India Outclassed Sri Lanka
India were restricted early by disciplined Sri Lankan bowling, losing key batters within the first half of their innings. But a resilient 103-run seventh-wicket partnership between Deepti Sharma (53 off 53) and Amanjot Kaur (57 off 56) turned the tide. Their counterattacking approach propelled India to 269/8 in 47 overs, a competitive score in the rain-shortened clash.
Under the DLS-adjusted chase, Sri Lanka needed 271 runs. However, despite flashes of resistance, the hosts folded for 211 in 45.4 overs. Deepti Sharma’s spell of 3/54 dismantled the middle order, while India’s bowlers maintained consistent pressure throughout.
India’s History with the World Cup: A Journey of Near Misses
For years, the Women in Blue have hovered on the brink of global glory without sealing the ultimate prize.
- 1978 & 1997 – India hosted the World Cup but couldn’t break into the top tier.
- 2005 & 2017 – India reached the finals, with the 2017 heartbreak at Lord’s still etched in memory as England snatched victory away in the final moments.
- 2013 (last time India hosted) – A campaign that ended in disappointment, with the team unable to progress deep into the tournament.
Now, 12 years later, hosting again provides both opportunity and pressure. The team is eager to turn potential into triumph on home soil.
Preparation and Expectations: Why 2025 Feels Different
Since the 2022 World Cup, India have played 38 ODIs, sharpening their combinations and testing depth. With 14 matches this year alone, the squad has worked hard to find balance between seasoned performers and rising talent.
This squad blends flair with fight:
- Smriti Mandhana, in the form of her life, leads the batting charge.
- Jemimah Rodrigues and Richa Ghosh offer flair and aggression in the middle order.
- The bowling attack, headlined by spinners like Deepti Sharma, promises control and breakthroughs against top opponents.
While the tournament’s decision not to stage matches at India’s biggest stadiums has drawn criticism, it opens the door for new regions like Guwahati to host cricketing history. The atmosphere in the north-east was electric, signaling growing enthusiasm for women’s cricket nationwide.
Sri Lanka’s Challenge: Athapaththu and Co. Not to Be Underestimated
Sri Lanka, co-hosts of this World Cup, entered the tournament with belief under the leadership of Chamari Athapaththu, their talismanic all-rounder. Known for upsetting stronger teams—most memorably India in the Women’s Asia Cup—the island nation remains a dangerous opponent.
Though they fell short in this opener, Sri Lanka showed patches of resistance that suggest they could still push for a semifinal spot if they find consistency.
Why This Win Matters for India
Every game counts in this 8-team World Cup, where slip-ups can prove costly. Starting with a victory not only boosts India’s confidence but also sets the tone for tougher battles ahead against powerhouses like Australia and England.
This win sends three clear signals:
- Depth in batting – Even when the top order falters, players like Amanjot Kaur can rise to the occasion.
- All-round strength – Deepti Sharma continues to be India’s backbone with both bat and ball.
- Belief at home – Early success could ignite nationwide support, a crucial psychological boost.
Looking Ahead: Can India Rewrite History in 2025?
The Women in Blue have often been labeled as “nearly there” when it comes to world titles. With the tournament returning to South Asia, and India showcasing resilience in their very first outing, there’s renewed optimism.
The question remains: can this be the year India lift their maiden ICC Women’s World Cup trophy?
If the opener against Sri Lanka is any indication, the blend of grit, experience, and hunger might just make 2025 a year Indian cricket fans will never forget.
Also Read: Asia Cup 2025 Final India’s Victory Overshadowed by Trophy Chaos and On-Field Drama
