Will Renuka Singh Thakur Lead India to Victory Against Pakistan in the Women's WC?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Renuka Singh Thakur replaces Amanjot Kaur in the Indian lineup.
- India aims to enhance their net run rate with a win.
- Pakistan's confidence is buoyed despite their first match defeat.
- India has an unblemished record against Pakistan in ODIs.
- Overcast weather may influence pitch conditions.
Colombo, Oct 5 (NationPress) In a pivotal encounter at the 2025 Women’s World Cup group stage, India has introduced fast-bowling ace Renuka Singh Thakur as Pakistan has won the toss and opted to bowl first at the R Premadasa Stadium this Sunday.
The host nation, India, enters this match following a comprehensive 59-run victory over Sri Lanka in their opening game in Guwahati. A win against Pakistan, who faced a seven-wicket defeat to Bangladesh in their tournament opener, would significantly enhance India's net run rate, which is crucial as they prepare for tougher matches ahead.
India boasts an impressive 11-0 record against Pakistan in women's ODIs, having triumphed by 107 runs in their last World Cup clash in 2022. Renuka joins the squad in place of seam-bowling all-rounder Amanjot Kaur, who is currently unwell.
Amanjot's bat had been pivotal in India's previous match against Sri Lanka, and her absence may impact the batting depth. “We played exceptionally well in our series here prior to the World Cup. We're maintaining a positive mindset and aiming for success. It’s unfortunate that Amanjot cannot play. We have developed great team chemistry and are eager for today’s match,” stated Harmanpreet Kaur.
Pakistan's captain, Fatima Sana Khan, announced that Sadaf Shamas will take the place of Omaima Sohail in their lineup. “There seems to be moisture on the wicket due to overcast weather. Our confidence is high, and we hope to perform better today. Anything below 250 runs could be a manageable target,” she commented.
Notably, just like in the three prior encounters between India and Pakistan during the men’s T20 Asia Cup in Dubai, there were no handshakes exchanged between Harmanpreet and Fatima during the toss in Colombo.
Playing XIs
India: Smriti Mandhana, Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Harmanpreet Kaur (captain), Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh (wk), Deepti Sharma, Sneh Rana, Sree Charani, Kranti Gaud, and Renuka Singh Thakur
Pakistan: Muneeba Ali, Sidra Amin, Aliya Riaz, Natalia Pervaiz, Fatima Sana Khan (captain), Sidra Nawaz (wk), Rameen Shamim, Sadia Iqbal, Nashra Sandhu, Diana Baig, and Sadaf Shamas