Rain saves England in World Cup clash with Pakistan in Colombo

England were saved by the rain having seemingly been heading for defeat against Pakistan at the World Cup.

At 34 without loss, Pakistan appeared to be cruising towards an adjusted target of 113 at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo when bad weather struck for a second time to force an abandonment.

The no result meant England’s unbeaten record in the competition was preserved and they returned to top spot in the table while bottom side Pakistan were denied their first win.

The outcome was especially tough on Pakistan, who had never beaten England in 15 previous one-day international meetings.

England slumped to 79 for seven before a first rain interruption of almost four hours.

Pakistan skipper Fatima Sana did most of the damage, exploiting plenty of movement off the pitch on her way to figures of four for 27, the best for her country at a World Cup.

Diana Baig made the early breakthrough, clean bowling Tammy Beaumont as she shouldered arms, before Fatima accounted for Amy Jones, captain Nat Sciver-Brunt and Heather Knight in quick succession.

Spinner Sadia Iqbal removed Emma Lamb and Sophia Dunkley and Alice Capsey fell to Rameen Shamim before the long break.

England rallied after the restart as Em Arlott and Charlie Dean took their partnership to 47 but, with the game reduced to 31 overs per side, the total looked likely to be inadequate.

Arlott was run out after Dean reverse-swept straight to substitute fielder Syeda Aroob Shah for 18.

Dean top-scored after hitting 33 from 51 balls but she became Fatima’s fourth victim when she flicked to Omaima Sohail at fine leg.

England’s final score of 133 for nine was revised downwards and Pakistan, with Omaima leading the way on 19 not out, looked to be well on course against an attack missing Lauren Bell and Sophie Ecclestone due to illness.

But rain returned after 6.4 overs and play did not resume.