Pakistan to Play in Colombo When India Hosts Women’s World Cup
The ICC announced on Monday that Pakistan will play all of their Women’s 50-over World Cup matches in Colombo. India will host the tournament, but political tensions between the two nations have led to Pakistan playing at a neutral venue.
ICC Moves Matches Due to Political Tensions
India and Pakistan have not faced each other in a bilateral cricket series since 2013. Because of ongoing diplomatic issues, the International Cricket Council (ICC) arranged for matches involving both nations to be played at neutral venues during ICC events.
In December, the ICC shared its decision to hold Pakistan’s matches in a different country whenever India hosts. This rule will also apply to the Women’s World Cup.
Pakistan to Play in Colombo for Entire Campaign
The ICC scheduled all of Pakistan’s group matches in Colombo. If Pakistan qualifies for the knockouts, Colombo will also host the first semi-final and the final. Otherwise, the final will shift to Bengaluru on November 2.
Bengaluru will host the second semi-final on October 30. The first semi-final will either be played in Colombo or Guwahati, depending on Pakistan’s progress. Visakhapatnam and Indore will also host matches during the eight-team tournament.
India vs Pakistan: The Ongoing Separation
Earlier this year, Pakistan hosted the Men’s Champions Trophy. India, however, played their matches in Dubai and even won the final there. That model continues to influence future tournament planning.
The neutral venue arrangement will continue for the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, and the 2028 Women’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in Pakistan.
To learn more about ICC event arrangements and updates, visit the official ICC website.
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