India Begin Women’s World Cup 2025 with Dominant Win Over Sri Lanka in Rain-Hit Opener

India kicked off their Women’s World Cup 2025 campaign in style, defeating Sri Lanka by 59 runs (DLS method) in the tournament opener held in Guwahati on September 30. A gritty century stand between Amanjot Kaur and Deepti Sharma powered the hosts to a competitive 269/8, before the Indian bowlers, led by spinners, dismantled Sri Lanka’s chase under overcast skies.

Sri Lanka, who won the toss and chose to bowl first in the rain-affected clash — reduced to 47 overs per side — had India in deep trouble midway through the innings. From a solid 120/2, the Women in Blue collapsed to 124/6, courtesy of a magical over from Inoka Ranaweera, who grabbed three wickets in four balls. The left-arm spinner ended with 4/46, making her the leading wicket-taker against India in ODIs with 18 scalps.

Despite the stumble, India fought back through Amanjot Kaur and Deepti Sharma, who stitched together a vital 103-run partnership. Amanjot’s composed 57, which included five boundaries and a six, brought stability back into the Indian innings. Deepti added a fluent 53 off 53 balls, guiding India to a total that proved more than sufficient on a turning track.

Ranaweera’s brilliance in the middle overs reminded everyone why she remains one of Sri Lanka’s most effective bowlers. Her arm ball that cleaned up Jemimah Rodrigues was a standout moment. “That was world-class deception,” said one commentator on air, as the Indian batter misread the ball’s direction entirely.

In response, Sri Lanka started well but failed to maintain momentum. Captain Chamari Athapaththu top-scored with 43, while Nilakshika Silva chipped in with 35. However, wickets fell at regular intervals, and the target proved too steep once Athapaththu was bowled by Deepti Sharma with a sharp delivery that spun through bat and pad.

India’s spinners — Sharma, Sneh Rana, and even part-time bowler Harmanpreet Kaur — made full use of the slow surface. All bowlers except one picked up at least a wicket, showcasing India’s depth and control. The hosts will now look to carry this momentum into their next high-pressure fixture against Pakistan.

With a strong spin attack and a balanced line-up, India’s decision to include Amanjot Kaur as a fast-bowling all-rounder paid dividends. However, questions remain around the team’s bowling depth, especially as they prepare to face powerhouses like Australia and England in the weeks ahead.

For now, though, Harmanpreet Kaur and her team have every reason to be optimistic after a convincing win that sets the tone for their World Cup journey.