A swarm of bugs near the pitch troubled both India and Pakistan players in the ICC World Cup match on Sunday (Screengrabs)

The sixth match of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 between India and Pakistan at the R. Premadasa Stadium on Sunday saw an unusual challenge as a swarm of flies interrupted play and tested the patience of players from both sides. The insects were particularly disruptive during India’s innings, with players visibly bothered while batting and fielding. Pakistan spinner Nashra Sandhu was frequently seen swatting the bugs away with a towel, while fielders and Sandhu approached the umpires to discuss ways to deal with the nuisance. Pakistan captain Fatima Sana then was forced to use a spray on the field, but the insects remained a persistent problem. Even after drinks were called, the flies continued to hover around the crease, with Harleen Deol momentarily stepping away from the crease to shoo them off as she prepared to face deliveries. Despite the distraction, India Women made steady progress against Pakistan’s bowlers. After 30 overs, India were 136 for 3, with Pratika Rawal scoring 31, Smriti Mandhana contributing 23, and Harmanpreet Kaur adding 19. Jemimah Rodrigues was at the crease on 21.Watch as the players try to deal with the bug issue The batting line-up had already seen the fall of three steady wickets in Smriti Mandhana, Pratika Rawal, and finally Harmanpreet Kaur at 106. Pakistan Women, having won the toss, chose to bowl first with varying success, as India built a stable platform despite the ongoing insect troubles and the loss of important wickets. While the match carries heightened tensions following the absence of handshakes ahead of play, the primary challenge on the field has been the unexpected bug swarms, which have added a strange twist to the contest at Colombo.

India now look to accelerate their innings, navigating both Pakistan’s bowling attack and the persistent insects in what has become a test of concentration and skill.