The skies opened up just as cricket fans eagerly awaited the India vs Bangladesh women’s World Cup clash in Navi Mumbai. Rain has become the unexpected star of this tournament, and now it threatens to wash out this final group stage match!
Why This Match Matters (Or Doesn’t)
Here’s the surprising truth – this rain might not change anything! India’s women have already booked their spot in the semifinals. Bangladesh, with just one win from six matches, are already out of the running. But pride and World Cup points are still on the line.
The Toss That Almost Wasn’t
After eight straight toss losses, captain Harmanpreet Kaur finally won the coin flip! She chose to field first – a decision made under dark clouds. But moments later, heavy rain sent players rushing back to the dressing rooms. The match has now been reduced to 43 overs per side.
What If Rain Wins Today?
If no play happens:
- India gets 1 point – finishing with 7 points total
- Bangladesh also gets 1 point – ending with 3 points
- This won’t change semifinal standings
Tournament standings if match is abandoned:
| Position | Team | Points |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Australia | 12 |
| 2 | England | 10 |
| 3 | South Africa | 8 |
| 4 | India | 7 |
Team Changes Show India’s Strategy
India made three bold changes for this match:
- Debutant wicketkeeper Uma Chetry gets her first cap
- Spin specialist Radha Yadav returns
- All-rounder Amanjot Kaur gets another chance
These changes suggest India is testing bench strength before semifinals. Chetry, from Assam, becomes the first woman from Northeast India to play a World Cup match – making this special even if rain interferes.
Playing XIs: Experience vs Youth
India’s Lineup: Pratika Rawal, Smriti Mandhana, Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Deepti Sharma, Uma Chetry (wk), Amanjot Kaur, Radha Yadav, Shree Charani, Renuka Singh
Bangladesh’s Lineup: Sumaiya Akter, Rubya Haider, Sharmin Akhter, Sobhana Mostary, Nigar Sultana (c & wk), Shorna Akter, Ritu Moni, Rabeya Khan, Nahida Akter, Nishita Akter, Marufa Akter
The Rain Curse Continues
This isn’t the first rain-hit match in the tournament. Five games were completely washed out in Colombo earlier. Even India’s match against New Zealand faced weather issues last week. The DY Patil Stadium drainage system is now under serious test!
Fans waiting patiently at Navi Mumbai stadium as rain stops play again. Will we get any cricket today? #INDWvsBANW #CWC2025
What’s Next for Both Teams?
For India – preparation for semifinals against either Australia or South Africa. For Bangladesh – packing bags after disappointing campaign. But cricket fans still hope for at least 20 overs of play to make it an official match.
Ground staff work feverishly with super-soppers as umpires inspect the outfield every 30 minutes. The rain has paused occasionally, but dark clouds loom large over Navi Mumbai. Stay tuned for updates!
