Vinay Kumar
The White Ferns, led by Sophie Devine, have managed just one win in three completed games, with their most recent outing against Sri Lanka ending in a no result due to rain. Devine said her side was keen to take advantage of the conditions. “We saw in the England vs Pakistan match that pitching it up early can be rewarding. With the weather around Colombo, knowing what to chase is often beneficial,” she explained. Devine added that her side’s focus remained on process and execution, backing openers Suzie Bates and Georgia Plimmer to set the tone.
Pakistan’s campaign has been more challenging, marked by three straight losses before rain denied them a possible turnaround against England. Skipper Fatima Sana remained optimistic despite recent setbacks, emphasizing belief and improvement with the bat. “Anything above 200 is a good target. Our batting will execute better this time. Same team,” she said.
Pakistan fielded an unchanged XI featuring key performers Muneeba Ali, Sidra Amin, Aliya Riaz, and Nashra Sandhu. New Zealand went with a balanced lineup led by Bates, Amelia Kerr, and the Kerr sisters’ bowling pair—Jess and Amelia—alongside Lea Tahuhu and Eden Carson.
With both teams hovering near the bottom half of the table, the Colombo fixture carries high stakes. Early swing could dictate proceedings, but with rain always a factor, adaptability and composure may ultimately decide who stays alive in the World Cup race.
