India kicked off their Women’s World Cup campaign on a high note, beating Sri Lanka by 59 runs (DLS method) in a rain-hit opener at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati — a match that not only gave India the perfect start but also etched itself into history books with a record crowd of 22,843, the highest ever for a Women’s World Cup game.
At one stage, India were staring down a disaster. Reduced to 124 for 6 after a middle-order collapse, the home crowd grew nervous. But then came a gutsy rescue act. Deepti Sharma (53) and Amanjot Kaur (57) stitched together a brilliant 103-run stand for the seventh wicket, steadying the ship when it looked like Sri Lanka had the upper hand.
Just when the innings needed late fireworks, Sneh Rana stepped up with a quickfire 28 off just 15 balls, lifting India to 269 for 8 in 47 overs (reduced from 50 due to rain). It was a total that looked competitive, though not unbeatable.
In reply, Sri Lanka had their moments but couldn’t quite string together the partnerships they needed. Skipper Chamari Athapaththu top-scored with 43, but once she fell, the chase lost momentum. The visitors eventually folded for 211 in 46 overs.
India’s bowlers made sure the target stayed out of reach. Deepti Sharma, already India’s savior with the bat, struck again with the ball — finishing with figures of 3 for 54. Sneh Rana and Shree Charani chipped in with two wickets apiece, tightening the screws in the middle overs.
Deepti Sharma: 53 runs + 3 wickets — the clear Player of the Match.
Amanjot Kaur: 57 under pressure, part of the game-changing partnership.
Inoka Ranaweera (SL): 4 for 46, the pick of Sri Lanka’s bowlers.
Beyond the scorecard, the night was a landmark for women’s cricket in India. The electrifying atmosphere in Guwahati sent a strong message — that the women’s game is now drawing crowds and passion like never before.
For India, this victory isn’t just about two points on the table. It’s about proving resilience. About showing they can bounce back from dire positions. And with the kind of support they got in the stands, this tournament opener might just be remembered as the moment the Women’s World Cup 2025 truly came alive.
