ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 Match Report
Introduction
The India Women’s National Cricket Team and the Bangladesh Women’s National Cricket Team met in a crucial group-stage encounter of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. The match, played at the iconic Dr. DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, carried great importance for both sides — India aiming to strengthen their semi-final chances, and Bangladesh fighting for pride and momentum in a world-class tournament setting.
The clash had all the makings of an intense contest between two Asian sides who share a growing rivalry in women’s cricket. India entered as favourites, but Bangladesh’s steady rise over recent years meant no team could take them lightly. However, unpredictable Mumbai weather would ultimately have the final say.
Match Overview
The fixture took place under partly cloudy skies, with humidity high and a rain threat looming. Bangladesh won the toss and elected to bat first, looking to put runs on the board before conditions deteriorated. The match was reduced to 27 overs a side after rain delayed the start.
From the very first over, India’s bowlers used the moist surface cleverly. Seamers found early movement, and spinners extracted sharp turn as the innings progressed. Bangladesh, however, showed grit and patience through their top order, trying to stitch together partnerships even under pressure.
By the halfway stage, Bangladesh were battling at 60 for 4, a reflection of India’s disciplined bowling attack and energetic fielding. Yet, Bangladesh found resilience through Sharmin Akhter and Ritu Moni, who played responsible innings to stabilize the team after early setbacks.
Bangladesh Innings: Fighting Through Difficult Conditions
Sharmin Akhter, one of Bangladesh’s most consistent top-order batters, stood tall amid the early storm. She played a steady knock of 36 runs, anchoring the innings and rotating the strike smartly. Her technique against spin was particularly impressive, using her feet well to counter Radha Yadav and Deepti Sharma.
Ritu Moni offered valuable support in the middle order, adding 22 runs and helping Bangladesh cross the 100-run mark. The pair’s composure prevented a collapse that looked imminent when the score read 45 for 4.
However, the Indian bowlers continued to apply relentless pressure. Radha Yadav, the left-arm spinner, emerged as the pick of the attack with three crucial wickets. Her spell dismantled Bangladesh’s lower order and restricted them to a modest total. Shreyanka Patil and Arundhati Reddy also chipped in with key breakthroughs.
Bangladesh eventually finished on 119 for 9 in their allotted 27 overs. Though the score looked below par, it reflected the challenging conditions — a tacky pitch, some dampness, and an Indian bowling unit in rhythm.
India’s Bowling Performance
India’s bowling was a masterclass in teamwork and control. The new-ball pair found early swing and kept the Bangladeshi openers guessing. Arundhati Reddy bowled with aggression and discipline, troubling batters with her pace variations and bounce.
The real damage, however, came through spin. Radha Yadav’s spell was exceptional — varying her flight, pace, and trajectory, she forced the Bangladeshi middle order into mistakes. Deepti Sharma provided tight support, ensuring there was no release of pressure.
Fielding standards were also high. A brilliant diving catch by Arundhati Reddy at point drew applause from the crowd. Smriti Mandhana’s sharp leadership and smart field placements kept India’s energy alive throughout the innings.
By the time Bangladesh’s innings closed, India looked in full control. They needed just 120 runs to win from 27 overs — a chase well within their reach.
India’s Chase and Rain Interruption
India began their chase confidently. Smriti Mandhana and Amanjot Kaur opened the innings with purpose, showing positive intent right from the first over. Mandhana, known for her elegant drives and impeccable timing, looked in sublime touch. She raced to 34 runs off 27 balls, hitting boundaries through cover and mid-wicket with effortless grace.
Amanjot Kaur played a supporting role, rotating strike and ensuring the partnership remained steady. Together, the openers took India to 57 without loss in 8.4 overs — a dominant start that nearly sealed the contest.
But then, the weather that had hovered as a threat all day finally struck. Heavy rain swept across the DY Patil Stadium, forcing the players off the field. Ground staff rushed in with covers, but persistent showers made resumption impossible.
After several inspections and delays, the umpires had no choice but to call off the match. The game was declared a No Result, with both teams sharing one point each.
Final Scorecard Summary
Bangladesh Women: 119/9 in 27 overs
-
Sharmin Akhter – 36 (48 balls)
-
Ritu Moni – 22 (29 balls)
-
Rubya Haider – 15 (18 balls)
-
Radha Yadav – 3/30 (5 overs)
-
Shreyanka Patil – 2/23 (4 overs)
India Women: 57/0 in 8.4 overs
-
Smriti Mandhana – 34 (27 balls)
-
Amanjot Kaur – 15 (23 balls)
Match abandoned due to rain. No Result.
Post-Match Reactions
Smriti Mandhana, India’s captain, expressed both satisfaction and disappointment. She praised her team’s bowling performance but lamented the weather’s impact on a near-certain victory. She highlighted the importance of staying mentally strong in tournaments where unpredictable rain interruptions are common.
Bangladesh’s captain, Nigar Sultana, viewed the washout as a positive result for her team. She acknowledged the challenges of facing a strong Indian side and credited her players for showing fight and discipline despite tough conditions.
Individual Performances & Key Players
Smriti Mandhana
The Indian captain once again proved her class with the bat. Her fluent stroke play and aggressive approach at the top ensured India got off to a flyer. Mandhana’s leadership on the field continues to inspire the younger players in the squad.
Radha Yadav
A standout performer, Radha’s 3-for 30 spell showcased her maturity as a match-winning spinner. Her ability to maintain pressure and pick wickets in clusters makes her an invaluable asset to the team.
Sharmin Akhter
For Bangladesh, Sharmin’s composed knock was the highlight of the innings. She showed solid technique and courage against a world-class bowling attack, demonstrating that Bangladesh’s batting lineup has the potential to grow stronger.
Arundhati Reddy
Her athleticism in the field and consistency with the ball continue to make her one of India’s most promising all-rounders. The spectacular catch she pulled off was a reminder of how much fielding standards have risen in the women’s game.
Tactical Analysis
India’s Approach
India’s game plan was clear: use early movement with the new ball, choke runs with spin, and chase efficiently with aggressive intent. The bowlers executed to perfection, and the openers’ positive body language suggested that India’s team culture emphasizes attacking cricket regardless of conditions.
Bangladesh’s Strategy
Bangladesh focused on building partnerships and avoiding collapses, a strategy that worked in patches. However, their inability to accelerate in the final overs remains an area for improvement. Their bowling attack, though not fully tested due to rain, continues to rely heavily on consistency rather than outright pace.
Fielding and Fitness
Both teams exhibited high fitness standards. Diving stops, direct hits, and sharp reflexes showed the evolution of women’s cricket into a fast, athletic game. Arundhati Reddy and Harmanpreet Kaur led India’s fielding charge, while Rubya Haider stood out for Bangladesh with her commitment on the boundary.
Broader Significance of the Match
While the result itself did not alter the tournament drastically, it highlighted the competitiveness and growing quality of women’s cricket in Asia. India’s dominance remains evident, but Bangladesh’s determination and gradual improvement cannot be ignored.
For India, the washout was a missed opportunity to gain two full points and fine-tune their chase strategy before the knockout stages. For Bangladesh, it was a confidence booster — surviving against a strong opponent and earning a point from what might have been a one-sided affair.
The game also underscored the importance of infrastructure and scheduling during the monsoon-transition period in India. Rain interruptions have affected several games in the tournament, raising discussions on covered stadiums and flexible match windows for future events.
The Rivalry: India vs Bangladesh Women
Over the past decade, the India-Bangladesh women’s rivalry has steadily grown into one of the most intriguing battles in Asian cricket. India, with its deeper talent pool and professional structure, has traditionally dominated. Yet Bangladesh has narrowed the gap with disciplined bowling and fearless young batters.
Matches between these two sides often go beyond the scoreboard — they reflect the growth of women’s cricket in the subcontinent. The contests inspire young girls across both countries to take up the sport, proving that cricket is no longer limited by gender boundaries.
In recent years, Bangladesh’s victories in shorter formats have shown that on their day, they can challenge even the best. India’s continued excellence ensures that every India-Bangladesh clash attracts attention, emotion, and anticipation.
Weather and Conditions in Navi Mumbai
The Navi Mumbai weather on match day was typical of late October — humid with intermittent cloud cover and sudden showers. The DY Patil surface offered assistance to both seamers and spinners, but once the rain arrived, the ground became unplayable.
The interruption reignited the debate on reserve days for crucial group matches. Players from both teams expressed their frustration, emphasizing how weather can undo weeks of preparation and momentum in a tightly-scheduled world event.
Tournament Implications
With the No Result, India moved to seven points in the group stage, securing a semi-final berth but missing a chance to climb higher in the standings. Bangladesh, with the single point earned, improved their position slightly but remained outside semi-final contention.
India’s focus now shifts to their semi-final clash, likely against a top-tier team like Australia or England. The team’s consistency, balanced lineup, and bench strength make them serious contenders for the title.
For Bangladesh, the remainder of the tournament will be about fine-tuning skills, building experience, and identifying future stars like Sumaiya Akter and Rubya Haider, who have shown flashes of potential.
The Future of Women’s Cricket in India and Bangladesh
This World Cup, and matches like this one, showcase how far women’s cricket has come. Both nations are investing heavily in grassroots development, domestic leagues, and international exposure. India’s Women’s Premier League has opened doors for younger talent, while Bangladesh continues to expand its domestic tournaments and training facilities.
The progress is visible not just in skills but in professionalism — fitness levels, tactical awareness, and fielding intensity. As fans and media coverage grow, so does the respect and recognition for women athletes across both countries.
Conclusion
The India Women vs Bangladesh Women match at the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 may have ended without a result, but it was rich in lessons, performances, and moments that define the spirit of the game.
India’s dominance with the ball and confident start with the bat reflected their readiness for bigger challenges. Bangladesh’s fighting spirit, despite limited resources, showcased the heart and determination of a team refusing to be overawed.
As the rain washed away what could have been a memorable finish, one thing remained clear — women’s cricket is thriving, growing, and inspiring millions. Whether it’s Smriti Mandhana’s graceful drives, Radha Yadav’s flighted deliveries, or Sharmin Akhter’s brave resistance, each performance contributes to the beautiful narrative of cricket’s evolution.
When the sun returns over Navi Mumbai, and the next match begins, both teams will carry forward the same belief — that every ball, every partnership, and every moment on the field can change the story of women’s cricket in South Asia.
About the Author
