As India get ready for one of the most awaited clashes in world cricket, vice-captain Smriti Mandhana opened up about the marquee clash.
She spoke about emotions and atmosphere surrounding their upcoming match against Pakistan in the Women’s World Cup 2025.
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The two teams will face off in Sri Lanka on October 5, a fixture that always grabs the attention of millions of fans from both sides.
Smriti Mandhana call India vs Pakistan matches “very intense”
Speaking ahead of the big match, Smriti Mandhana said that the energy and tension in an India-Pakistan game are unlike anything else. She mentioned that such games often push players to perform beyond their limits.
“The atmosphere during India-Pakistan games is always very intense; it’s always a full house,” she said. “Everyone you meet since morning tells you to win. That sort of atmosphere also brings out the best in you sometimes. My teammates and I absolutely enjoy that,” said Mandhana.
Matches between these two countries are not just about cricket, they are packed with emotion, history, and national pride.
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What makes this India-Pakistan clash even more special?
India and Pakistan’s women’s teams never meet outside of ICC or ACC tournaments and that makes their every encounter extra special.
In the past, India vs Pakistan games have also had some really warm moments like when the Indian players went to meet Pakistan captain Bismah Maroof and her baby after their 2022 World Cup match.
But things are not the same now. The mood between the two sides has become tense after some recent incidents and the heated exchanges during the Asia Cup.
That’s why this time, when the two teams face off in the World Cup, it’s expected to be much more charged up as both sides will want to prove a strong point on the field.
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