ICC Women’s World Cup: New Zealand-Pakistan clash abandoned without result; Fourth kidnapping in Colombo | Cricket News

Rain once again spoiled proceedings at the Women’s World Cup as Pakistan’s clash with New Zealand at the R. Premadasa Stadium was abandoned on Saturday, marking the fourth failure of the tournament at the venue.Pakistan were put into bat but struggled to find momentum, reaching 92 for five when the rain started.Go beyond borders with our YouTube channel. REGISTER NOW!Earlier, the innings was halted at 52 for three with play reduced to 46 overs, but a second rain break brought play to a complete halt. Lightning forced players off the field, with match officials advising ground staff to stay away.New Zealand captain Sophie Devine expressed her disappointment but remained focused on the remaining matches. “We were in a decent position and we were waiting for the rain to stop. It’s disappointing because you wait four years to play a World Cup. It’s a shame. Now we have to win our remaining two matches,” she said.The White Ferns’ bowling attack made early breakthroughs, with seamers Jess Kerr and Lea Tahuhu taking early breakthroughs, while spinners Amelia Kerr and Eden Carson shared the ensuing wickets. They were also sharp in the field, with veteran Suzie Bates making a superb catch at midwicket to dismiss Muneeba Ali (22), and Carson diving full length at point to claim Sidra Amin (9).Pakistani skipper Fatima Sana regretted the lost opportunity. “We were looking at around 180. We know we have good spinners and we could have put pressure on them,” she said.

With the points shared, New Zealand move to four points, level with India, although the latter is in fourth place due to a higher Net Run Rate and a game in hand. Pakistan remains winless in the tournament, having suffered three defeats and two draws.Pakistan will next face South Africa in Colombo on October 21, while New Zealand will face India in Navi Mumbai on October 23.