The 19th match of the ICC Women's ODI World Cup 2025 between Pakistan Women and New Zealand ended with no result due to heavy rain. New Zealand Women won the toss and chose to bowl first. Pakistan Women were 92/5 after 25 overs when the match was called off. This outcome severely harmed Pakistan’s chances of reaching the knockout stage. Both teams shared points, allowing South Africa to become the second team to qualify for the semi-finals after Australia.
Pakistan Remain Winless
Saturday’s abandoned match left Pakistan still searching for their first win in the tournament. Meanwhile, New Zealand stayed in the hunt for a semi-final spot. They are currently fifth on the points table with one win and two washed-out games. Their upcoming matches against India and England will now determine whether they progress further.
New Zealand Dominate Before Rain
Before the rain spoiled the contest, New Zealand looked in complete control after winning the toss in cloudy conditions. Their experienced fast bowler Lea Tahuhu returned to the side and made an immediate impact, taking two wickets in her opening spell. The Kerr sisters and spinner Eden Carson also claimed one wicket each, leaving Pakistan struggling at 92 for 5 when the second spell of rain ended play.
Tahuhu made the first breakthrough in her opening over when Omaima Sohail, who had managed just 3 runs off 14 balls, was trapped lbw. Then, two sharp catches deepened Pakistan’s troubles.
Pakistan’s Early Struggles
Opener Muneeba Ali played some fine strokes and survived an early scare when keeper Isabella Gaze dropped a low catch off Jess Kerr. However, she fell soon after for 22 when Suzie Bates took a stunning catch at midwicket. Sidra Amin also fell to another brilliant effort — this time by Carson at point — leaving Pakistan 52 for 3.
The drizzle had already started, and just as Amin departed after 12.2 overs, it intensified, forcing a break in play.
Riaz Fights Back, But Rain Returns
After a 95-minute delay, play resumed with 46 overs per side. Natalia Pervaiz joined the experienced Aliya Riaz in the middle. Riaz attacked Tahuhu early, hitting her to the square-leg boundary. But Pervaiz looked uneasy against Melie Kerr’s variations.
She received a reprieve when Sophie Devine dropped a tough catch at slip but could not capitalize. On 14, she tried to clear long-on off Carson, only to hand an easy catch to Devine.
Soon after, Melie Kerr dismissed captain Fatima Sana with a clever wrong’un that hit the stumps. Pakistan were reeling at 80 for 5 when rain returned after five more overs.
Match Called Off After Heavy Showers
At 92 for 5 after 25 overs, the players walked off again as lightning and drizzle returned. Officials later reduced the contest to 36 overs per innings, but heavy rain soon forced full covers on the field. Eventually, the match was called off, ending Pakistan’s hopes of keeping their campaign alive.
Brief Scorecard
Pakistan Women have been struggling since the first match in the ongoing World Cup. Rain also washed out two of their matches, for which they received 2 points. Their chances of qualifying are very low. They must win both of their remaining matches by a large margin to at least remain in contention. This is a very difficult task for Pakistan Women, considering their performance so far. On the other hand, New Zealand needs to win their remaining matches by a huge margin and also rely on other results. Stay tuned with JUSZNEWS for regular updates!