Women's World Cup 2025: 'Everyone you meet tells you to win' - Smriti Mandhana on India-Pakistan rivalry

Published - 04 Oct 2025, 17:31 IST | Updated - 04 Oct 2025, 17:31 IST

India began their quest for a maiden ICC title with a commanding 59-run win over Sri Lanka in the opening match of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025. All eyes are now set on the highly anticipated fixture as Harmanpreet Kaur and Co. gear up to lock horns against Pakistan on October 5 in Colombo.

Indian captain Harmanpreet, vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, and all-rounder Deepti Sharma shared their emotions around the fixture, reflecting on the unique excitement, packed stadiums, and the pride attached to India–Pakistan matches. Meanwhile, Pakistan captain Fatima Sana recalled the camaraderie with Indian players and underlined her team’s confidence after a year of strong performances.

Speaking to JioStar, India captain Harmanpreet expressed her thoughts on India-Pakistan matches:

“We have grown up watching India-Pakistan games and always wanted to be a part of them. We always talk about treating it as any other game and staying focused.”

India vice-captain Mandhana elaborated on the atmosphere during such matches:

“The atmosphere during India-Pakistan games is always very intense; it’s always a full house. Everyone you meet since morning tells you to win. That sort of atmosphere also brings out the best in you sometimes. My teammates and I absolutely enjoy that.”

India all-rounder Deepti Sharma spoke about the rivalry between both teams:

“The weight and excitement of India-Pakistan matches are always greater compared to other games. We look forward to that contest and are always on our toes when we face them.”

Pakistan captain Fatima Sana shared her memories of the rivalry:

“I was young when I played in the last World Cup in 2022, and after the Pakistan-India match, the whole Indian team came and met us. The way they celebrated and sat together, and had fun together, was really special. That was the moment I thought we had a great relationship with the Indian team, and I enjoyed that.”

“I believe in our team because of the way the players have performed in the last few months. Everyone is in good shape and performing well. We know the Indian team is strong, and we saw how they played against Australia in the last series; Mandhana, Jemimah, and Richa played really well. Both teams know the conditions. We will try to play good cricket against them. Our whole team is passionate about India vs Pakistan, so we will execute our best plans and try to win that match.”

“Harmanpreet Kaur is obviously a senior and experienced player. Cricket demands experience, and the way she carries the Indian team with so many hopes is impressive. The whole team enjoys her captaincy because she is senior and plays really well. She is a very impactful player; she can hit and even defend when needed. She can do a lot on the field as well.”