The Women’s World Cup 2025 encounter between India Women and Pakistan Women at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo turned chaotic after Muneeba Ali’s controversial dismissal left players and fans in disbelief. The drama unfolded in the fourth over when Muneeba was ruled out through a rare sequence involving both an LBW appeal and a direct-hit run-out.
India’s pacer Kranti Gaud delivered a straight-length ball that struck Muneeba in line with the stumps, prompting an immediate LBW appeal. While wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh appeared unsure about the line, India still opted for a review. However, before the decision was finalized, Deepti Sharma smartly threw down the stumps at the striker’s end.
Initially, the on-field umpire declared Muneeba safe, suggesting her bat had grounded in time. But a detailed third-umpire review revealed that her bat was marginally in the air as the bails were dislodged. The replays confirmed the ball would have hit the stumps too, resulting in a double blow—LBW and run-out in one sequence.
Muneeba, visibly stunned, stayed on the pitch seeking clarification before walking back reluctantly. Her captain Fatima Sana expressed frustration and was seen engaging in a heated exchange with the fourth umpire. The confusion delayed play as Pakistan players tried to process the unusual dismissal.
The Pakistan dugout was clearly rattled by the incident, while India capitalized on the momentum. Following Muneeba’s departure for just two runs off twelve balls, Sidra Amin stepped in to stabilize the innings.
Social media soon erupted, debating whether the dismissal was valid. However, under Law 30 of the MCC Code, a batter with the bat raised when the stumps are broken is deemed out of their ground.
Earlier in the innings, Harleen Deol’s steady 46 and Richa Ghosh’s quickfire 35 helped India post a total of 247 runs. Despite the slow pitch, India managed to maintain control through tight bowling and sharp fielding, leaving Pakistan struggling at 25 for 2 after 10 overs.
The unusual run-out added an unforgettable twist to yet another fiery India-Pakistan cricket showdown, marking a moment that will be discussed long after the tournament ends.
