ISLAMABAD: The International Cricket Council has confirmed Pakistan will play their matches in Sri Lanka during the 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup, implementing a hybrid model for the second consecutive ICC tournament.
The decision comes as India maintains its stance against hosting Pakistani teams, continuing the arrangement first used during last year’s Champions Trophy.
Tournament Structure and Venues
The eight-nation tournament will run from September 30 to November 2 across five venues – four in India and one in Sri Lanka.
Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium will host the opening match between India and Bangladesh, while Colombo’s R Premadasa Stadium serves as the alternate venue for Pakistan’s matches.
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The knockout stage venues remain flexible, with Colombo potentially hosting the semifinal and final if Pakistan progresses beyond the group stage.
Political Considerations and Cricket Diplomacy
This marks India’s first time hosting the Women’s World Cup in 12 years, though political tensions have again necessitated creative scheduling solutions.
The ICC has formalized this hybrid approach through 2027, ensuring Pakistan’s participation in ICC events hosted by India. Pakistan secured their World Cup berth by defeating Thailand in April’s qualifiers, while defending champions Australia aim for their eighth title in the competition’s history.
The tournament structure reflects cricket’s ongoing challenge in navigating geopolitical realities while promoting the women’s game globally.
With growing interest in women’s cricket, organizers hope the event will build on recent momentum despite the logistical complexities introduced by the hybrid model.
