Play halted after 34 overs due to insect swarm. • ICC/Getty Images
An unexpected swarm of insects caused multiple interruptions and a 15-minute halt during the Women`s World Cup cricket match between India and Pakistan in Colombo. Despite field fumigation, the insects quickly returned, continuing to disrupt play.
During the India vs Pakistan women`s cricket encounter at the Khettarama stadium, play was initially suspended for 15 minutes for fumigation. This marked the second attempt to clear the playing area of insects, following an earlier, less intensive, and unsuccessful effort.
However, the fumigation`s effect proved temporary. Winged termites, likely drawn by the stadium`s floodlights, reappeared less than ten minutes after play resumed. Their persistent presence caused further delays, with Pakistan offspinner Rameen Shamim even needing an insect removed from her eye during the 38th over.
The insect invasion commenced around the 20th over of India`s innings, coinciding with sunset. The swarm visibly inconvenienced both Indian batters and Pakistani bowlers, with Nashra Sandhu appearing particularly agitated. During the 28th over, Sandhu and captain Fatima Sana even requested insect repellent, applying it around the bowling crease and on parts of their attire.
An early drinks break was called during the initial insect-related stoppage, yet the bugs continued to swarm persistently near the center of the playing area.
Ultimately, after the 34th over, play was completely halted. The cricketers departed the field, and a person in a gas mask entered the arena with a fogging machine. Within minutes, nearly the entire playing area was engulfed in anti-insect smoke. Play recommenced once the smoke had dissipated.
“Honestly, you had to concentrate a lot more,” remarked Jemimah Rodrigues after India posted 247 runs. “It was difficult to see much with all the bugs around.”
While insect-related stoppages are infrequent in Sri Lanka, they are not unprecedented. Certain termite species swarm following rainfall, particularly during the wetter months. Coincidentally, the same venue had experienced a complete washout of the Sri Lanka vs Australia fixture just two days prior due to heavy rain.
