Pakistan to Skip ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 Opening Ceremony in India

In a significant development ahead of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, reports suggest that Pakistan’s women’s cricket team will not attend the opening ceremony in Guwahati on September 30. The decision adds another layer to the already tense sporting relations between India and Pakistan and highlights how political realities continue to influence cricket in the subcontinent.

1. Decision Confirmed by Reports

According to Pakistan’s Geo Super, neither captain Fatima Sana nor any other team representative will participate in the curtain-raising event. The grand ceremony is scheduled to feature Indian playback icon Shreya Ghoshal, setting the stage for the tournament’s opener between India and Sri Lanka.

2. Political Policy Behind the Move

Sources suggest the absence is linked to a broader policy where both India and Pakistan have reportedly agreed to avoid crossing borders for ICC events over the next three years. This policy directly impacts ceremonial appearances as well as hosting duties.

3. India-Pakistan Sporting Standoff

The move reflects the larger backdrop of India-Pakistan relations. India has not toured Pakistan since 2008, and earlier this year, declined participation in the Champions Trophy 2025, citing security and political concerns. Pakistan’s latest decision appears to mirror this stance.

4. Matches Scheduled in Sri Lanka

Pakistan’s women’s team will play all their World Cup matches in Colombo at the R Premadasa Stadium. This includes their group fixtures, with the venue also hosting the semi-finals and final if they qualify.

5. Key Fixtures for Pakistan

The team’s first match is against Bangladesh on October 2, while the much-anticipated Pakistan vs India clash is set for October 5. These encounters will be watched closely, regardless of off-field tensions.

6. Squad Ready for Challenge

Pakistan announced a balanced 15-member squad led by Fatima Sana, with Muneeba Ali Siddiqui as vice-captain. The squad includes experienced names like Aliya Riaz, Diana Baig, and Sidra Amin, alongside young talents such as Eyman Fatima and Shawaal Zulfiqar.

7. Non-Travelling Reserves Named

To provide additional depth, Pakistan also named five non-travelling reserves: Gull Feroza, Najiha Alvi, Tuba Hassan, Umm-e-Hani, and Waheeda Akhtar. These players will be on standby in case of injuries or late changes.

8. Strong Qualifying Campaign

Pakistan enters the tournament with confidence after dominating the Women’s ODI World Cup Qualifiers earlier this year. Hosting the qualifiers, they won all five matches, showcasing their depth and preparation for the global event.

9. Opening Ceremony Without Pakistan

The absence of Pakistan at the opening event is expected to be felt. The ceremony, designed to highlight unity and celebration of the sport, will now proceed without one of cricket’s most storied nations. For fans, it’s another reminder of how politics continues to overshadow cricket’s spirit.

10. Bigger Picture for Women’s Cricket

Despite the diplomatic standoff, the Women’s World Cup 2025 remains a major milestone for the women’s game. With more teams, greater visibility, and top-tier performances expected, the spotlight will ultimately be on the players. For Pakistan, the focus will now shift firmly to their on-field campaign in Colombo.

Conclusion

Pakistan’s choice to skip the ICC Women’s World Cup opening ceremony in India reflects the ongoing political complexities between the two nations. While it’s a setback for the idea of a united global event, the cricket itself promises to deliver plenty of excitement. For Pakistan, the real challenge begins on October 2, as they chase glory on the field, leaving the off-field disputes to the administrators.