In a truly memorable moment for Pakistan in the ICC Women’s World Cup, opener Sidra Amin etched her name in history by striking her team’s first-ever six against India in One Day Internationals. This significant milestone occurred during the 18th over of Pakistan’s pursuit of India’s formidable total at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
Facing the Indian off-spinner Sneh Rana, Sidra showcased her confidence, stepping down the pitch to launch the ball cleanly over long-on. The shot sailed several feet beyond the boundary ropes, marking a rare highlight in what has historically been a challenging rivalry for Pakistan against their Indian counterparts. For context, these two nations have faced each other 12 times in ODIs prior to this game.
Sidra’s powerful six provided a much-needed boost to Pakistan’s innings, which had been struggling to build momentum following some early wickets. At the 24-over mark, Pakistan had reached 81 for 3, still requiring a considerable 167 runs for victory. Sidra remained resolute, unbeaten on 37 runs from 66 deliveries, an innings that included four boundaries in addition to her historic maximum. She found a solid partner in Natalia Pervaiz, who contributed 27 runs, as the pair worked to stabilize the innings after a rocky start.
Earlier in the match, the Indian team posted a competitive total of 247 runs before being dismissed in their allotted 50 overs. Power-hitters like Jemimah Rodrigues (32 off 37 balls) and Richa Ghosh (an unbeaten 35 off just 20 balls) played crucial roles in setting the target. Pakistan’s bowling effort was led by Diana Baig, who claimed an impressive 4 wickets for 69 runs, and Fatima Sana, who took 2 wickets for 38 runs.
Pakistan’s chase got off to a difficult start, beginning with Muneeba Ali’s controversial run-out in the fourth over, swiftly followed by the dismissals of Sadaf Shamas and Aliya Riaz. Despite these setbacks, Sidra Amin’s exceptional hitting, crowned by her record-breaking six, emerged as a standout moment for Pakistan in this high-stakes encounter. The cricketing world now watches to see if Pakistan can build on this historic moment and secure their first-ever ODI victory against India in what has long been a one-sided contest.