Pakistan Crash Out of Women’s World Cup After Heavy Defeat to South Africa

COLOMBO – October 22, 2025:
Pakistan’s hopes of reaching the semi-finals of the ICC Women’s World Cup were dashed on Tuesday after a crushing 150-run (DLS method) defeat to South Africa at Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium. Fatima Sana’s side was already struggling when relentless rain and a revised target sealed their exit from the tournament.

Chasing a steep DLS-adjusted target of 234 in 20 overs after multiple rain delays, Pakistan could only manage 83-7. The loss confirmed their elimination from the competition, with just one group match remaining — a now-dead rubber against co-hosts Sri Lanka on Saturday.

Earlier, South Africa posted a mammoth 312-9 in just 40 overs, their highest total in Women’s World Cup history. After the early dismissal of Tazmin Brits for a duck, captain Laura Wolvaardt led the charge with a composed 90, sharing a 118-run second-wicket stand with Sune Luus (61). Later fireworks from Marizanne Kapp and Nadine de Klerk — the latter smashing 41 off just 16 balls — pushed the Proteas past the 300-run mark.

Fatima Sana, who had won the toss and elected to field, admitted after the match that her bowlers struggled to adapt to the wet conditions.

“We needed to be calmer in those situations,” she said. “The ball was wet, and rhythm was hard to find.”

Pakistan’s chase started poorly and never recovered. Muneeba Ali, Omaima Sohail, Sidra Amin, and Aliya Riaz all fell cheaply, with Kapp claiming 3-20. Sidra Nawaz offered some resistance with 22* but lacked support.

Rains in Colombo also saw Pakistan’s previous two matches against England and New Zealand washed out — costly results that ultimately derailed their semi-final bid.

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