Pakistan face another rainout; South Africa reach semis

Pakistan face another rainout; South Africa reach semis

Women's ODI World Cup: Pakistan Vs New Zealand: Pakistan suffered their second washout in four days at the Women's World Cup 2025, with rain in Colombo ending their clash against New Zealand and confirming South Africa’s place in the semifinals.

No result Pakistan 92 for 5 (Riaz 28*, Tahuhu 2-20, Carson 1-7) vs New Zealand

Colombo witnessed another washout for Pakistan at the Women's World Cup 2025 — their second in four days — leaving their hopes of reaching the semifinals hanging by a thread. With the match against New Zealand abandoned and points shared, South Africa became the second team to qualify for the semis after Australia. Even if other teams end up with the same points, South Africa will go through as they already have four wins from five matches.

The washout meant Pakistan are still searching for their first win of the tournament, while New Zealand stay in contention, sitting fifth with one win and two abandoned games. Their upcoming matches against India and England will now decide their future.

Before rain ruined the game, New Zealand had gained the upper hand after choosing to bowl first in cloudy conditions. Experienced pacer Lea Tahuhu, returning to the XI, struck twice early. The Kerr sisters and Eden Carson also picked up a wicket each, leaving Pakistan struggling at 92 for 5 before the second spell of rain ended play.

Tahuhu got her first breakthrough in her opening over, trapping Omaima Sohail lbw for just 3. Muneeba Ali, who hit a few boundaries and was dropped early, fell for 22 when Suzie Bates took a brilliant diving catch at midwicket. Sidra Amin was dismissed soon after by another sharp catch from Carson at point, leaving Pakistan reeling at 52 for 3. Drizzle began around that time, forcing a 95-minute break.

When play resumed, the match was reduced to 46 overs per side. Aliya Riaz tried to rebuild the innings alongside Natalia Pervaiz, hitting Tahuhu for a boundary. But Pervaiz struggled against Melie Kerr’s spin, surviving one dropped catch before being caught by Sophie Devine at long-on for 14. Soon after, Melie Kerr bowled Pakistan captain Fatima Sana with a googly, making it 80 for 5.

Rain returned again when Pakistan were 92 for 5 after 25 overs. Though it briefly stopped, the drizzle came back harder, forcing the ground staff to cover the entire field. With conditions worsening, the match was eventually called off, marking yet another frustrating day for Pakistan.