Women's ODI World Cup 2025: Why Will India Play One Match In Colombo Despite Being The Official Host?

The International Cricket Council (ICC), on June 16 (Monday), announced the full schedule for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025. India Women will commence their campaign against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru on September 30 and will play their final league against Bangladesh on October 26.

India are the official host of the World Cup but will play their game against Pakistan in Colombo on October 5. This arrangement stems from the 2025 Champions Trophy, during which India played all their matches in Dubai despite Pakistan being the host. It was then decided that Pakistan would also not travel to India for ICC tournaments and play all their games at a neutral venue.

It’s because of the cross-border tension between the two countries. Colombo will host at least 11 games in the World Cup, two more if Pakistan qualify for the semi-final and final. Apart from Pakistan playing seven games, Sri Lanka will also play five games in Colombo, including the one against the Women in Green. 

India’s Full Schedule For ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025

- Tuesday, September 30: India vs Sri Lanka, Bengaluru

- Sunday, October 5: India vs Pakistan, Colombo

- Thursday, October 9: India vs South Africa, Vizag

- Sunday, October 12: India vs Australia, Vizag

- Sunday, October 19: India vs England, Indore

- Thursday, October 23: India vs New Zealand, Guwahati

- Sunday, October 26: India vs Bangladesh, Bengaluru