Saba Karim, a former India wicketkeeper and current BCCI selector, believes the Asia Cup controversy will undoubtedly somehow affect India’s ICC Women’s World Cup match versus Pakistan in Colombo. However, he insisted that Harmanpreet Kaur’s team should be motivated, given the lack of quality between the teams.
At the Asia Cup held in the UAE, India refused to shake hands with Pakistan after having met thrice, including in the final. They even refused to accept the trophy from ACC President and Pakistan’s federal minister Mohsin Naqvi. Karim said this will happen with the women, too, as they will refuse to shake hands as well.
“Yes, there will be some pressure because India–Pakistan has always been a high-voltage clash. But once the game begins, the focus will be on cricket. The players and support staff would have prepared mentally to deal with such situations,” Karim said on JioStar.
He added that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made its stance clear, and the women’s team will follow the men’s example from the Asia Cup. “Once the controversy is behind them, the team will concentrate solely on the match.” Assessing the contest, Karim pointed out the gulf in resources and skills between the two nations. India is far ahead of Pakistan in terms of infrastructure, support, and talent pool. While Pakistan has exciting players like Sidra Amin, who scored successive centuries against South Africa, and their young captain Fatima Sana, the overall balance still favours India.”
Discussing the larger challenge of the World Cup for India, Karim mentioned three main areas: form, fitness, and pressure. “It is a long tournament, so consistency from match-winners like Smriti Mandhana will be crucial. Fitness will also be tested with frequent travel, making recovery essential. Finally, the weight of expectations—India being seen as a strong contender—will add to the pressure.”
Karim concluded that in spite of Pakistan's prowess as an opponent, India cannot afford to be complacent. "Do your homework and stay focused, and the class gulf will come out in the wash."
