In the Pakistan vs England Women’s World Cup clash, captain Fatima Sana won the toss and chose to bowl first. The match, played in Colombo, holds great importance for Pakistan as they continue their search for a first win in the tournament. Meanwhile, unbeaten England aim to stay on top of the table.
England Forced to Make Changes
England entered the match with two major changes. Sophie Ecclestone, who took 4 for 17 against Sri Lanka, and Lauren Bell were both unwell. As a result, Sarah Glenn and Em Arlott joined the team. Glenn’s inclusion adds more spin depth, while Arlott brings fresh pace.
Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt mentioned that she would have also chosen to bowl first. According to her, the humid weather and pitch conditions might favor the bowlers early in the game.
Pakistan Strengthen Batting Order
Pakistan made adjustments in their batting line-up as well. Omaima Sohail returned to open, and Aliya Riaz came in at No. 4. Sadaf Shamas and Eyman Fatima were left out. Fatima Sana stated that her team must “bat longer” to post stronger totals. Moreover, she expects spinners to gain help from the surface later on.
Match Conditions and Toss Impact
Unlike the previous match, which was washed out, this encounter started on time. Conditions remained humid but playable. The pitch offered movement for seamers early, which could influence the first innings. Later, as expected, spinners may become key to both sides.
Playing XIs
Pakistan: Omaima Sohail, Muneeba Ali, Sidra Amin, Aliya Riaz, Natalia Pervaiz, Sidra Nawaz (wk), Fatima Sana (capt), Rameen Shamim, Diana Baig, Nashra Sandhu, Sadia Iqbal.
England: Tammy Beaumont, Amy Jones (wk), Heather Knight, Nat Sciver-Brunt (capt), Sophia Dunkley, Emma Lamb, Alice Capsey, Charlie Dean, Sarah Glenn, Linsey Smith, Em Arlott.
The Pakistan vs England Women’s World Cup match promises excitement. Both teams will look to capitalize on early conditions and gain crucial momentum in the tournament.
