**Women’s WC: Crowd Attendance in IND-SL Match Breaks Records**
*By Gaurav Tripathi | October 1, 2025, 09:26 AM*
The opening match of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 between India and Sri Lanka has set a new milestone in women’s cricket attendance. Held on September 30 at Guwahati’s Barsapara Cricket Stadium, the game attracted an unprecedented crowd of 22,843 fans.
This figure marks the highest attendance ever recorded for any group stage match in Women’s World Cup history, surpassing the previous record of 15,935 set during the India-Pakistan clash in 2024. The record turnout reflects the growing popularity and support for women’s cricket across the nation.
**Tendulkar Praises Progress in Women’s Cricket**
ICC Hall of Famer Sachin Tendulkar applauded the remarkable strides made in women’s cricket in recent years. He credited the Women’s Premier League (WPL) as a game-changer that has significantly enhanced visibility and provided financial security to female cricketers.
Tendulkar also expressed his gratitude to former BCCI secretary Jay Shah for championing equal match fees for men and women and playing a pivotal role in laying the foundation for the WPL. According to him, these efforts are transforming the landscape of the sport by promoting equality and professionalism.
**ICC’s Record Prize Money Lauded**
Tendulkar further praised the International Cricket Council (ICC) for announcing record prize money for the Women’s World Cup, which even exceeds the amount offered in the men’s 2023 World Cup.
He emphasized that such administrative decisions are life-changing and send a powerful message: women’s cricket deserves equal respect. Tendulkar highlighted that these initiatives inspire every young girl with a passion for cricket by showing them that their dedication is valued equally.
**Match Highlights: India Defeats Sri Lanka by 59 Runs (DLS Method)**
In a rain-curtailed encounter, India batted first and posted a competitive total of 269/8 in their allotted 47 overs. Middle-order batswomen Amanjot Kaur and Deepti Sharma played crucial innings, each scoring fifties that rescued the team from a precarious position.
Sri Lanka, struggling to keep up, suffered a middle-order collapse and were eventually bowled out for 211. Deepti Sharma also contributed with the ball, taking three wickets for 54 runs. Her performance elevated her to become India’s second-highest wicket-taker in women’s ODI cricket, surpassing former spinner Neetu David.
The match not only showcased thrilling cricket but also demonstrated the growing enthusiasm and support for women’s cricket, setting an inspiring tone for the tournament ahead.
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