women world cup – The highly anticipated Women’s World Cup 2025 Group Stage clash between Sri Lanka Women (SLW) and New Zealand Women (NZW) has been interrupted by rain, disrupting what was shaping up to be a closely contested encounter at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
Sri Lanka, batting first after winning the toss, posted a steady total, thanks to a gritty partnership between Chamari Athapaththu and Vishmi Gunarathne. The pair built a solid platform before Gunarathne fell for 42, dismissed by Rosemary Mair in the 28th over. By the time rain interrupted play, Sri Lanka had reached 125/2 in 29.2 overs.
The New Zealand bowlers maintained disciplined lines despite the slow pitch, with Mair and Amelia Kerr controlling the middle overs. The introduction of Maddy Green into the attack was strategic, but her spell was cut short as dark clouds rolled in over the Colombo sky.
Match officials were forced to halt play around mid-afternoon due to persistent showers, with covers brought on almost immediately. Players and spectators alike waited anxiously for conditions to improve, though forecasts had predicted a high chance of rain throughout the day.
The delay could significantly impact the outcome of the match, especially with both teams eyeing critical points to stay alive in the semi-final race. If the match cannot resume, both teams would share a point each, a result that may prove costly in the tightly contested group standings.
Ground staff remain on standby as officials monitor the weather and pitch conditions for a potential restart. The match could still resume if the rain eases within the next hour, though a shortened game via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method now appears likely.
Sri Lanka: 125/2 in 29.2 overs (Vishmi Gunarathne 42, Chamari Athapaththu still batting)
New Zealand: Rosemary Mair the pick of the bowlers with a key breakthrough
Weather: Persistent rain with no clear window for resumption yet
Venue: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
What’s at Stake?
Both teams are sitting mid-table and a win today would have provided crucial momentum. A washout, however, adds pressure ahead of their final group matches, where net run rate could become a decisive factor.
Stay tuned for further updates as the match officials await a break in the rain.
