Controversy and Drama in IND vs PAK Women’s ODI World Cup Clash: Jemimah Survives on No-Ball, Toss Error Sparks Outrage
Colombo, October 5, 2025: High drama unfolded during the much-anticipated Women’s ODI World Cup match between India and Pakistan today. While fans expected a fierce contest on the field, the game quickly turned controversial due to an umpiring error at the toss and a dramatic no-ball call that gave India’s Jemimah Rodrigues a crucial lifeline.
Jemimah Rodrigues Granted Lifeline After No-Ball Drama
In the middle of India’s innings, Jemimah Rodrigues edged a delivery from Pakistan’s pace bowler Diana Baig, resulting in a straightforward catch by wicketkeeper Sidra Nawaz. The on-field umpire raised the finger, declaring Jemimah out, and the Pakistani players began to celebrate what seemed like a vital breakthrough.
However, the third umpire intervened after a review. Upon inspection, it was revealed that Diana Baig had overstepped the crease – it was a no-ball. As a result, the decision was overturned, and Jemimah was declared not out, continuing her innings. This reversal brought visible frustration to the Pakistani side, while India breathed a sigh of relief.
Such incidents, though rare, often turn the tide in high-pressure matches like these.
Toss Controversy: Match Referee’s Blunder Gives Pakistan Unfair Advantage
The day began with controversy during the toss. Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur flipped the coin, and Pakistan’s captain Fatima Sana called “tails.” The coin landed as “heads” — clearly in India’s favor. However, South African match referee Shaandre Fritz mistakenly interpreted the call and declared Pakistan as the toss winner, granting them the right to bowl first.
Despite the obvious error, the decision was not reversed, and the match proceeded with Pakistan bowling. The incident has raised serious questions about the professionalism and alertness of match officials, especially in a high-stakes World Cup match.
Harmanpreet Refuses Handshake – Echoes of Past Tensions
Post-toss, Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur did not shake hands with her Pakistani counterpart Fatima Sana, further fueling the tension between the two sides. This moment brought back memories of a similar incident during the Asia Cup, where Indian men’s vice-captain Suryakumar Yadav also avoided a handshake with Pakistan’s Salman Agha.
The tensions between the teams seem to be extending beyond the cricketing arena, reflecting larger political and emotional undertones. Notably, in a previous tournament, the Indian team had refused to accept the trophy from PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, forcing them to return home without a formal award ceremony despite winning the title.
Match Summary So Far: India Steady After Early Wickets
After being asked to bat, India faced early setbacks:
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Harmanpreet Kaur – 19 runs (Caught by Sidra Nawaz off Diana Baig)
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Smriti Mandhana – 23 runs (Dismissed by Fatima Sana)
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Pratika Rawal – 31 runs (Bowled by Sadia Iqbal)
At the crease currently are Jemimah Rodrigues and Harleen Deol, attempting to stabilize the innings after the initial blows.
Repeat Encounter: Fourth IND vs PAK Clash in Just Four Weeks
Interestingly, this marks the fourth consecutive Sunday in which India and Pakistan have clashed in international women’s cricket. In their previous three encounters on September 14, 21, and 28 — all part of the Asia Cup — India emerged victorious each time, asserting dominance over their arch-rivals.
Playing XIs
India: Harmanpreet Kaur (captain), Smriti Mandhana, Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, Pratika Rawal, Richa Ghosh (wicketkeeper), Deepti Sharma, Renuka Singh Thakur, Sneh Rana, Kranti Gaud, Shri Charani.
Pakistan: Fatima Sana (captain), Muneeba Ali, Sidra Ameen, Aliya Riaz, Sidra Nawaz (wicketkeeper), Natalia Pervaiz, Rameen Shamim, Nashra Sandhu, Diana Baig, Sadia Iqbal, Sadaf Shamas.
