The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of women’s cricket, especially in South Asia. As global interest in the sport surges, this edition of the World Cup introduces a groundbreaking structure: a hybrid model. Due to ongoing geopolitical tensions, Pakistan will play its matches in Sri Lanka, while the rest of the tournament will be hosted in India.
The 13th edition of the 50-over tournament will commence on September 30 and will be played across five venues in India and Sri Lanka.
The Hybrid Model
The hybrid model adopted for the 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup stems from ongoing political friction between India and Pakistan. As a result, Pakistan’s matches have been relocated to Sri Lanka, following a similar structure used during the Asia Cup 2023. The ICC facilitated this arrangement to ensure fair participation for all teams despite diplomatic constraints.
While this decision brings logistical challenges, it reflects a necessary compromise. The fusion formula or Hybrid Model was earlier implemented during the Champions Trophy 2025, where India played its matches at neutral venues in Dubai.
Under this agreement, both countries will avoid bilateral travel for ICC events over the next three years.
Thus, Pakistan’s games for the Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 and the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup will also be hosted at neutral venues.
“This agreement applied to the 2025 men’s Champions Trophy in Pakistan, the 2025 women’s ODI World Cup in India, and the 2026 men’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.”
Pakistan Women’s Team: Road to the World Cup
Pakistan qualified for the tournament through the ICC qualifiers held in Lahore, Pakistan. Led by Captain Fatima Sana. The squad has undergone rigorous training, including acclimatization tours in Sri Lanka to adjust to spin-friendly conditions. Their preparations reflect a strong commitment to improving Pakistan’s stature in women’s cricket.
Schedule and Key Matches
Colombo will serve as Pakistan’s base for all seven group-stage matches, including the clash against arch rivals. Key fixtures include anticipated clashes against Bangladesh and the West Indies. Should Pakistan qualify for the knockout stage, their matches could be held in Guwahati, Bengaluru, or Colombo. The tournament will feature eight teams competing in a round-robin format with 28 league matches, with the adoption of a hybrid model.
“India is the host, and they will decide where to play, but we are ready to play at any neutral venue other than India.” — Moshin Naqvi.
Matches will be hosted at five venues: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium (Bengaluru), ACA Stadium (Guwahati), Holkar Stadium (Indore), ACA-VDCA Stadium (Visakhapatnam), and R. Premadasa Stadium (Colombo).
The semi finals are scheduled for October 29 and 30 in Guwahati/Colombo and Bengaluru, respectively, with the final set for November 2, depending on Pakistan’s progression.
“The venues for the knockouts are dependent on Pakistan qualifying.” — The ICC
Challenges and Opportunities Due to the Hybrid Model
Playing in Sri Lanka introduces challenges such as reduced home crowd support and unfamiliar playing environments. However, the hybrid model offers a platform for international exposure and recognition.
“Fans have shown tremendous support for the women’s game… and we are confident these tournaments will elevate the sport to even greater heights.” — ICC Chairman.
Pakistan’s journey in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 reflects resilience amidst complex political landscapes. With the hybrid model in place, Pakistan continues to assert its presence in global women’s cricket. This tournament represents more than just competition, it symbolises progress, inspiration, and the determination to uplift women’s sports across the region.
Australia, the defending champions, remains the most successful team in the competition’s history with seven titles.
