Women’s World Cup 2025: Match referee's toss blunder sparks row as India face Pakistan in Colombo

Published - 05 Oct 2025, 16:54 IST | Updated - 05 Oct 2025, 16:54 IST

The much-anticipated clash between India Women and Pakistan Women in the Women’s World Cup 2025 is underway at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, on Sunday, October 5, 2025. Every time India faces their arch-rivals, the encounter brings unusual or controversial moments, and this match was no different as an incorrect decision was made at the toss.

Pakistan skipper Fatima Sana’s call was misheard by the match referee and the broadcaster when Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur flipped the coi. Notably, Fatima called ‘tails’ only for match referee Shandre Fritz and announcer Mel Jones to hear it as ‘heads’. The coin indeed landed on heads, and was wrongly awarded to Fatima, who chose to field. Harmanpreet did not object to the decision at the time.

Toss happens for #indvpak match -Harmanpreet toss the coinPak Captain - TailsMatch Referee - Heads is the call… And It’s heads.Seriously Dumbo?#INDvsPAK

Both teams made one change each to their playing XIs for this second league-stage match. Pakistan brought in Sadaf Shamas in place of Omaima Sohail, while India added Renuka Singh Thakur, replacing the in-form Amanjot Kaur, who was unwell. Meanwhile, much like at the Asia Cup 2025, the captains did not shake hands at the toss amid India's no-handshake stance against Pakistan.

Handshake row continues as IND-PAK captains avoid toss in WC

India Women had won their tournament opener against Sri Lanka Women by 59 runs (DLS method), while Pakistan Women lost their opening match to Bangladesh Women by seven wickets.

Both teams will look to find their rhythm and claim the valuable two points in this marquee event. India and Pakistan have dominated the cricketing spotlight over the past four Sundays, with both men’s and women’s teams clashing. In the first three men’s matches, India defeated Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 and secured the trophy.

Meanwhile, India Women have historically dominated Pakistan Women, winning all 11 previous encounters in ODIs. The hosts will aim to continue their perfect record and strengthen their position, while Pakistan Women will be determined to open their account in this high-profile tournament.