Frustration mounts after back-to-back washouts
New Zealand’s path to the semifinals of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 suffered a major setback after their crucial fixture against Pakistan was washed out due to relentless rain in Colombo. The match, scheduled at the R. Premadasa Stadium, became the fourth at the venue to be abandoned during the tournament — and the second no-result in a row for both New Zealand and Pakistan.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, New Zealand captain Sophie Devine did not hold back her emotions.
“I hope you were watching that South Africa game the other night, where they were off for five hours and still managed to squeak in a game. So, yeah, look, you must feel we were in a decent position today, you just needed the rain to hold off, and unfortunately, it didn’t happen today. It’s extremely frustrating. You wait four years for a World Cup, and to have rain play such a massive part in it is disappointing. I think, hopefully, in future editions, they might consider starting games earlier in the day.”
Calls for scheduling reform amid mounting rain delays
Devine emphasised that earlier start times could help mitigate weather disruptions, particularly in regions where afternoon showers are common.
“We’ve obviously seen here that the rain usually comes in the afternoon, so there’s a real opportunity to play these matches at 10 or 11 a.m. and actually get a game in. Because that’s what all the teams want — to play cricket. You’ve waited so long to be here, you want to test yourself against the best, and to be scuppered by rain is a real shame for me. It’s pretty flat. We really wanted to play today. We were up and about for this match, and we just wanted to be out there playing cricket.”
With two of their matches now lost to weather, New Zealand sit fifth in the standings, and the pressure is squarely on them as they prepare to face two tournament heavyweights — India and England — in must-win encounters.
Turning focus to India and England: must-win mode activated
Despite the frustration, Devine maintained clarity on what lies ahead.
“But now, the situation is extremely clear, we just need to win both games, starting with India in Mumbai. It’s a big challenge, but we’re really excited about it. I know the girls don’t need any extra motivation to take them on.”
With the team returning to India following their stint in Colombo, preparations are already underway.
“We’ll head back to India tomorrow and look forward to those challenges. We were so focused on these games here in Colombo that we wanted to give them our full focus. But luckily, we’ve got a few days now before the next game against India, so we’ll prepare really well.”
Respect for India, but no fear
Looking ahead to their high-stakes clash, Devine acknowledged the strength of the Indian side but also pointed to New Zealand’s own experiences and readiness.
“We’ve had some good experiences against them recently, including in the World Cup last year, and we’ll draw on those. But we also know they’re huge favourites, playing at home, in conditions that suit them, with threats throughout the lineup.”
Still, the New Zealand captain welcomed the challenge.
“But again, this is what you want — to play against the best teams in their own backyard and put yourself under pressure. We’re really looking forward to that challenge.”
With two matches to go and a semifinal spot still mathematically possible, the White Ferns now face not just formidable opponents but also the urgency to bounce back — this time, praying the skies stay clear.
