India’s batting line faltered on a sluggish surface but a late flourish from Richa Ghosh carried them to a competitive 247 all out against Pakistan in their Women’s World Cup clash in Colombo on Sunday.

The innings began promisingly, with openers Smriti Mandhana and debutant Pratika Rawal forging a 48-run stand. Both appeared settled, Mandhana stroking 23 before falling leg before to Fatima Sana, while Rawal top-scored among the top order with a patient 31. Yet, as wickets fell in clusters, India struggled to sustain momentum.

Captain Harmanpreet Kaur’s brief stay ended on 19, leaving Harleen Deol and Jemimah Rodrigues to steady the innings. The pair combined for a hard-earned 45-run partnership for the fourth wicket, with Deol contributing 46 and Rodrigues 32. But once they departed, the middle order too could not convert starts into substantial scores.

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All-rounders Deepti Sharma (25) and Sneh Rana (20) stitched together 42 runs for the sixth wicket, momentarily reviving hopes of a strong finish. It was Ghosh, however, who altered the tempo in the closing overs. Walking in at a precarious stage, the wicketkeeper-batter struck a brisk, unbeaten 35 off 20 deliveries, ensuring India crossed the 240 mark, a total that may yet prove significant given the sluggish conditions.

For Pakistan, seamer Diana Baig was the standout, claiming four wickets for 69 runs. Fatima Sana bowled with discipline to finish with figures of 2/38, while Sadia Iqbal took 2/47. Rameen Shamim and Nashra Sandhu picked up one wicket each, ensuring India never fully broke free.

India’s total of 247 leaves the contest finely balanced.