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Australia Women vs Pakistan Women, Match 9: Healy Falls Early as Pakistan Bowlers Keep Pressure in Colombo
Colombo, October 8, 2025 — Under the shimmering floodlights of the R. Premadasa Stadium, Pakistan Women made a spirited start against the defending champions Australia in Match 9 of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025/26. After winning the toss and opting to field, Pakistan’s disciplined bowling unit kept Australia’s formidable top order in check, restricting them to 48 for 2 in 12 overs at the time of the latest update.
Pakistan’s Plan Pays Off Early
Pakistan captain’s decision to bowl first proved effective, with Sadia Iqbal and Fatima Sana leading the charge. The pair combined accuracy with movement to dismiss both Australian openers — a crucial breakthrough against one of the most dangerous batting line-ups in the world.
Alyssa Healy, the Australian captain and wicketkeeper, looked solid early on, stroking three boundaries with her trademark precision. However, her fluent 20 off 23 deliveries was cut short when she mistimed a drive off Sadia Iqbal, finding Diana Baig at cover. The wicket brought Pakistan roaring back into the contest, silencing the small but vocal Australian section of the Colombo crowd.
Shortly after, Phoebe Litchfield — who had been patient for her 10 off 22 balls — fell to a clever change of pace from Fatima Sana, caught and bowled in the 12th over. From a steady 30/0, Australia slipped to 30/2, giving Pakistan a much-needed foothold.
Perry and Mooney Rebuild the Innings
At the crease now are two of Australia’s most experienced campaigners — Ellyse Perry (4 not out) and Beth Mooney (13 not out). The duo have taken a cautious approach, rotating the strike and ensuring no further damage against the tight Pakistani bowling. Their partnership will be vital in steering Australia towards a competitive total on a pitch that is offering just enough grip for the spinners.
Perry, known for her composure under pressure, has been content playing within herself so far, nudging singles and assessing conditions. Mooney, meanwhile, has shown glimpses of aggression, driving confidently through the off-side whenever the bowlers have over-pitched.
Pakistan’s Bowlers Impress
Pakistan’s bowlers deserve full credit for maintaining their lines and keeping the run rate under control.
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Fatima Sana: 4-1-12-1 — outstanding with her discipline and swing.
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Sadia Iqbal: 4-0-20-1 — struck the key blow to remove Healy.
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Diana Baig: 2-0-11-0 — economical in her short spell.
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Rameen Shamim: 2-0-5-0 — off to a steady start with her off-spin.
Their combined effort ensured Australia couldn’t dictate terms early on — something the world champions have made a habit of in previous tournaments.
Healy’s Intent and Dismissal
Before her dismissal, Alyssa Healy had looked in fine touch, cutting and driving crisply. However, Pakistan’s persistence paid off when she tried to force the pace against Sadia Iqbal’s left-arm spin and perished trying to clear the infield. It was a calculated risk that didn’t come off — but a reminder of Healy’s attacking instincts that have often set the tone for Australia’s innings.
Middle Overs Will Decide the Battle
As the match progresses, much will depend on whether Perry and Mooney can stabilize the innings and lay a foundation for Australia’s explosive middle order — featuring Ashleigh Gardner, Tahlia McGrath, and Georgia Wareham. Pakistan, on the other hand, will be eager to capitalize on any lapse in concentration and push for more wickets before the final 10 overs.
The pitch at R. Premadasa Stadium has shown signs of being slightly slow, suggesting that anything around 230–250 could be a winning total. Dew might become a factor later in the evening, making the toss win for Pakistan even more significant.
Looking Ahead
With Australia at 48/2 after 12 overs, this contest remains finely balanced. The defending champions will aim to accelerate once their batters are set, while Pakistan’s bowlers — led by the impressive Fatima Sana — will look to continue applying pressure.
If Pakistan manage to restrict Australia below 250, it could set up a thrilling chase and potentially one of the biggest upsets of the tournament. For now, all eyes remain on Ellyse Perry — the seasoned star who has rescued Australia countless times before.
At a Glance — Score Summary
Australia Women (First Innings, 12.0 overs): 48/2
Alyssa Healy 20 (23) — c Diana b Sadia Iqbal
Phoebe Litchfield 10 (22) — c & b Fatima Sana
Ellyse Perry 4* (9)
Beth Mooney 13* (18)
Extras: 1 (wide)
Fall of wickets: 30/1 (Healy), 30/2 (Litchfield)
Pakistan Bowling:
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Fatima Sana: 4–1–12–1
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Sadia Iqbal: 4–0–20–1
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Diana Baig: 2–0–11–0
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Rameen Shamim: 2–0–5–0
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