As they reflected on the special thrill, crowded stadiums, and pride associated with India-Pakistan matches, Indian captain Harmanpreet, vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, and all-rounder Deepti Sharma expressed their feelings on the match. Fatima Sana, the captain of Pakistan, emphasised her team’s confidence following a year of impressive achievements and recalled the closeness with Indian players.
With a decisive 59-run victory over Sri Lanka in the opening match of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, India started their pursuit of their first ICC championship. Now, all eyes are on the eagerly awaited match as Harmanpreet Kaur and company prepare to face Pakistan in Colombo on October 5.
In an interview with JioStar, India skipper Harmanpreet shared her opinions about India-Pakistan games:
“We have always desired to participate in India-Pakistan matches, which we have watched since we were young. We frequently discuss how to remain focused and handle it like any other game.
Smriti Mandhana, India’s vice captain, went into further detail about the ambiance at these games:
“There is always a full house and a highly intense atmosphere during India-Pakistan games. Everyone you’ve met since the morning urges you to succeed. Sometimes you can bring out the best in that kind of environment as well. I really like that, as do my teammates.
All-rounder Deepti Sharma of India discussed the competition between the two teams:
“India-Pakistan contests always carry more weight and interest than other games. When we compete against them, we are always alert and eager for that contest.
The captain of Pakistan, Fatima Sana, recalled the rivalry as follows:
“I was young when I played in the previous World Cup in 2022, and the entire Indian team came to meet us after the Pakistan-India game. It was quite unique how they rejoiced, sat together, and enjoyed each other. I was pleased to think that we had a good rapport with the Indian squad at that point.
Fatima went on to discuss Pakistan’s prospects versus India:
The way the players have played over the past few months has given me faith in our squad. Everyone is doing well and in good health. As seen by their performance against Australia in the previous series, we know the Indian team is formidable; Mandhana, Jemimah, and Richa all played admirably. Both groups are aware of the circumstances. Against them, we’ll strive to play good cricket. We shall carry out our best preparations and attempt to win that match since our entire team is intensely interested in India vs. Pakistan.
Regarding Harmanpreet Kaur:
“Harmanpreet Kaur is undoubtedly an accomplished and seasoned athlete. Cricket requires expertise, and it’s amazing how she leads the Indian squad with such high expectations. Due to her seniority and exceptional play, the entire squad appreciates having her as captain. She is a powerful player who can defend as well as hit when necessary. She is also quite capable on the pitch.
India
