The much-anticipated clash between New Zealand and Sri Lanka in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 was left hanging in the balance as relentless rain in Colombo forced an abandonment, leaving fans and players alike frustrated .
Match Abandoned: A Shared Point in Colombo
In a dramatic turn of events, the 15th match of the tournament at the R. Premadasa Stadium was called off without a single ball bowled in New Zealand’s innings. This result means both the White Ferns and the Sri Lankan team walk away with a single point each, a crucial but unsatisfying outcome for both sides fighting for a spot in the semi-finals .
Sri Lanka’s Batting Blitz Before the Deluge
Before the skies opened up, Sri Lanka had crafted a formidable total of 258 for 6 in their allotted 50 overs. The innings was built on a solid foundation laid by their captain, Chamari Athapaththu, who notched a well-compiled 53 off 72 balls .
However, the real fireworks came from the lower order. Nilakshika de Silva produced a stunning, tournament-best blitz, smashing an unbeaten 55 off just 28 deliveries. Her explosive cameo, studded with boundaries, propelled Sri Lanka from a competitive score to a potentially match-winning one .
Key Partnership That Set the Stage
The platform for this total was a crucial opening stand between Athapaththu and Vishmi Gunaratne. Their partnership provided the stability Sri Lanka needed before the middle order could accelerate .
New Zealand’s Chase: A Dream Dampened
New Zealand, led by their experienced all-rounder Sophie Devine, were poised for a chase. Devine had earlier impressed with the ball, claiming 3 wickets for 54 runs to keep Sri Lanka in check during their middle overs . The White Ferns’ batting lineup, known for its depth and power, was ready to take on the target, but the persistent downpour had other plans .
Tournament Implications: Every Point Counts
This shared point has significant ripple effects across the Women’s CWC 2025 standings. With teams jostling for position, a full two points could have been a game-changer. Now, both New Zealand and Sri Lanka must regroup and focus on their upcoming fixtures, knowing that every future match is a must-win scenario .
Weather Woes in Colombo
The forecast for Colombo had predicted hot and humid conditions, with a high humidity level of 73% . Unfortunately, this translated into the heavy, persistent rain that ultimately washed out the contest, denying fans a potential classic.
Infographic: Match Snapshot
| Team | Score | Top Performer | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sri Lanka | 258/6 (50 overs) | Nilakshika de Silva (55* off 28) | Match Abandoned |
| New Zealand | 0/0 (0 overs) | Sophie Devine (3/54) | Match Abandoned |
What’s Next?
Both teams will be eager to get back on the field. For Sri Lanka, it’s a chance to build on their strong batting performance. For New Zealand, it’s an opportunity to convert their potential into a full victory. The rain may have been the winner today, but the real battle for World Cup glory continues.