In a high-voltage ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 clash between India and Pakistan at Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium on October 5, Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur once again showed why she is known for her composure under pressure.
Walking in to bat at No. 4, Harmanpreet contributed 19 runs from 34 deliveries, striking two boundaries and forging a crucial 39-run stand for the third wicket with Harleen Deol, who scored a steady 46. The key moment came during the 22nd over, bowled by Pakistan spinner Nashra Sandhu.
After the final ball of the over, Sandhu fielded a defensive shot from Harmanpreet and responded by giving the Indian captain a fierce death stare in an apparent attempt to intimidate her. Unfazed, Harmanpreet Kaur responded with a calm yet equally intense stare of her own, a gesture that quickly went viral and became one of the match’s talking points.
See The Video Here :
Did Harmanpreet Said “Bhosdiki ankh dikhati hai” ?pic.twitter.com/nxDCfgfmp6
— Kawal (@bandaofrabb) October 5, 2025
Sandhu’s Impact and India’s Batting Effort
Nashra Sandhu, who finished with one wicket — dismissing Jemimah Rodrigues for 32 off 37 balls — tried to assert psychological dominance during her spell. However, Harmanpreet’s composed reaction highlighted India’s mental strength in the face of pressure.
India’s batting effort was a mixed affair, with the team managing 247 runs before being bowled out. The innings had its bright spots, particularly Harleen Deol’s composed 65-ball 46, which brought stability to the middle order. Richa Ghosh also played a valuable late cameo, smashing 35 off just 20 balls, helping India inch closer to the 250-run mark despite early struggles on a sluggish surface.
Toss Controversy and On-field Tensions
The match was overshadowed by a controversial start when the toss was erroneously awarded to Pakistan by the match referee, forcing India to bat first. Adding to the drama, Harmanpreet continued the “no-handshake” stance seen earlier from the Indian men’s team by refraining from shaking hands with Pakistan skipper Fatima Sana during the toss.
India’s innings also saw several moments of tension, including close run-out calls and miscommunication between batters, disrupting their rhythm. Yet, moments like Harmanpreet’s icy stare-back became symbolic of India’s composed and fearless approach amid a charged India-Pakistan encounter.
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