ODI World Cup 2025: India and Pakistan to Clash in Colombo Amidst Ongoing Political Strains

The upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup, commencing on September 30th, will see India’s opening match against Sri Lanka at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The highly anticipated India versus Pakistan match is scheduled for October 5th at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, a neutral venue, due to persistent political tensions. India will also play against Bangladesh in Bengaluru on October 26th. Defending champions Australia’s tournament will begin against New Zealand on October 1st at the Holkar Stadium in Indore. Australia will face Pakistan in Colombo on October 8th and England in Indore on October 22nd, a repeat of the previous final. All of Pakistan’s matches will be held in Colombo as per the hybrid hosting agreement between the BCCI and PCB. Pakistan’s schedule includes matches against Bangladesh, Australia, England, New Zealand, South Africa, and Sri Lanka. England’s schedule includes matches against South Africa, Sri Lanka, and New Zealand. Bangladesh is set to play against Pakistan, with additional matches in Visakhapatnam, and a match against Sri Lanka in Colombo. South Africa will compete against New Zealand and Australia in Indore. Due to diplomatic friction, Pakistan’s matches are on neutral grounds as India refused to travel to Pakistan. The tournament will feature 28 league matches followed by three knockout fixtures across various cities. The first semi-final is slated for Guwahati, but could be shifted to Colombo if Pakistan qualifies. The second semi-final will be in Bengaluru, and the final venue is yet to be finalized, possibly either Bengaluru or Colombo.