Sat Oct 04 13:38:03 UTC 2025: **Headline: Political Tensions and Rain Clouds Loom Over India-Pakistan Women’s Cricket World Cup Clash**

**Colombo, Sri Lanka** – An eagerly anticipated ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 match between India and Pakistan on Sunday at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo faces the looming shadow of regional political tensions and the threat of inclement weather. While both teams are publicly stating their desire to “focus on the game,” the match is already steeped in controversy due to ongoing political hostility between the two nations.

The pre-match and post-match handshakes, or potential lack thereof, have become a major point of discussion. Recalling the recent Asia Cup where the Indian men’s team refrained from shaking hands with their Pakistani counterparts, a top BCCI official has hinted at the possibility of a similar “no handshake” policy for this World Cup fixture. “Whether there will be handshakes, whether there will be hugging, I cannot assure you of anything,” BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia stated, emphasizing the strained relationship.

Despite the external pressures, Pakistan’s captain Fatima Sana stressed the team’s commitment to concentrating on the tournament. “Obviously, we know what’s happening around us, but we try to stay focused on the game because the World Cup is an event every player waits for,” she said. India’s bowling coach, Aavishankar Salvi, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive headspace.

The last time these two teams met at the Women’s World Cup, the camaraderie displayed, particularly the Indian players’ interactions with Pakistan captain Bismah Maroof’s baby daughter, drew widespread praise. However, when asked about a repeat of that spirit, the Indian team declined to comment.

Adding to the uncertainty, weather forecasts predict rain in Colombo, potentially leading to delays or disruption of play.

On the field, India holds a dominant 11-0 record against Pakistan in women’s ODIs. India is predicted to name an unchanged XI. Pakistan, after a poor showing against Bangladesh, may be tempted to introduce an all-rounder Aroob Shah into the team. The match is scheduled to begin at 09:30 GMT, with live build-up on Al Jazeera Sport starting at 06:30 GMT. All eyes will be on the pitch and the skies as politics and the weather threaten to steal the spotlight from this high-stakes cricket encounter.

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