In a bizarre and unexpected interruption at the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, the high-stakes encounter between India and Pakistan at Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium came to a halt, not because of rain, but due to a swarm of flies invading the field. What began as mild irritation soon turned into a full-blown disturbance as players struggled to concentrate amid the relentless insects. Both Indian and Pakistan cricketers were visibly distracted, waving their hands and covering their faces during the innings. In a rare sight, Pakistan captain Fatima Sana herself stepped up to handle the situation, resorting to an unconventional but practical solution, bug spray.

CWC 2025 IND-W vs PAK-W: Fatima Sana leads fumigation effort on the field

The fly invasion started around the 20th over of India’s innings, just as dusk began to settle over Colombo. The swarm quickly grew thicker, hovering near the pitch and bowling crease, disrupting play. Pakistan spinner Nashra Sandhu was seen complaining to the umpire, while offspinner Rameen Shamim had to receive on-field assistance after an insect entered her eye. In a remarkable moment, a Pakistan substitute rushed to the ground carrying a can of bug spray, which skipper Fatima took in hand. She began spraying near the bowling crease and around the players to repel the insects, drawing applause from both teammates and spectators for her quick thinking.

Despite the temporary measure, the problem persisted, forcing umpires to take an early drinks break. When the flies continued to swarm, play was officially paused after 34 overs for professional fumigation. A staff member wearing a gas mask entered the field with a fogging machine, covering nearly the entire outfield and pitch area in anti-insect smoke. Once the haze cleared and conditions improved, the players returned to resume the match, a rare scene that turned an intense India–Pakistan contest into a moment of shared humor and relief amid the chaos.

Here’s the video:

Hmmm! pic.twitter.com/U18ReWM9Rx

— Ihtisham Ul Haq (@iihtishamm) October 5, 2025

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India put pressure on Pakistan in ICC Women’s World Cup 2025

India managed a competitive total of 247 in their 50 overs despite early breakthroughs by Pakistan bowlers. Harleen Deol’s 46 and Jemimah Rodrigues’ 32 anchored the innings, while Richa Ghosh’s late blitz of 35 off 20 balls gave India the late momentum. Pakistan’s Fatima, Diana Baig and Sadia Iqbal led the bowling effort, picking up crucial wickets at regular intervals. The Indian top and middle order showed resilience under pressure, with partnerships keeping the scoreboard ticking. Pakistan’s chase began shakily, losing key wickets early, including Muneeba Ali and Sadaf Shamas, restricting their momentum. Sidra Amin fought valiantly with an 81-run knock, but the required run rate climbed steeply. With nine wickets down, Pakistan needed 90 off 46 balls, setting up a tense finish. The match has so far been dominated by disciplined Indian bowling and steady batting, creating high drama in Colombo.

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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.