The sore sight of players peering out of the dressing room had become a disappointing highlight of the last six Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 matches at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
And during the final fixture in the Lankan capital, between host Sri Lanka and Pakistan, the scenes were no different.
The concluding clash was off to a rough start when a sudden downpour swept over the ground just 10 minutes before the toss — almost an uncanny sign of what was to follow, turning into yet another waiting game.
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After over three hours of tireless effort from the proactive groundstaff and a brief spell of clear skies, play finally resumed, but for all of 4.2 overs, making this the fourth rain-affected match in the last six at this venue.
Sri Lanka’s Chamari Athapaththu, after opting to bowl, expressed confidence in her bowling unit, including the addition of young Dewmi Vihanga. Pakistan too brought in two youngsters — Eyman Fatima and debutant Syeda Aroob Shah.
The new-ball pair, Malki Madara and Sugandika Kumari, bowled economically, keeping things tight as Pakistan openers Omaima Sohail and Muneeba Ali managed just one boundary and 18 runs before the rains returned once more.
What could have been an opportunity for some rising players to showcase their ability turned into yet another dull, damp affair.
However, in those 20-odd minutes of play, a moderately sized crowd cheered enthusiastically for the improved fielding efforts of the home side and the rare chance to see the Lankans in action.
They waited patiently despite the gloomy skies and some scattered moments of reprieve, with some lively band music from the stands, only to watch another one slip away.
The no-result meant Pakistan ends its campaign winless but with three points from washouts, while Sri Lanka, with a solitary victory, bows out with five points — hopeful for more, but left with what couldn’t quite be.
Published on Oct 24, 2025
