A bizarre and lighthearted moment unfolded during the India-Pakistan Women’s World Cup 2025 clash at the R. Premadasa Stadium on Sunday, when a swarm of insects disrupted play, forcing players to temporarily leave the field for nearly 15 minutes.
Play stopped after insects invade field
The interruption occurred during the 28th over of India’s innings, when Pakistani spinner Nashra Sandhu was seen swinging her towel in an attempt to ward off the flies. Moments later, several players approached the on-field umpire to complain about the situation, prompting an unexpected delay.
Initially unsure of the cause, commentators speculated about an injury when a substitute player ran onto the field carrying a spray can. However, it soon became clear that the problem was far less serious — and far more amusing.
Fatima Sana’s “pest control” moment goes viral
Pakistan captain Fatima Sana took matters into her own hands, grabbing the insect repellent and spraying it across the pitch, much to the amusement of fans and commentators alike.
Her spirited “pest control” attempt failed to keep the bugs at bay, but it left everyone in splits. “Okay, I’m very curious. You’ve been in that dugout, what’s come out, Sana Mir?” asked a commentator. “I have no idea,” replied the former Pakistan captain, as laughter filled the commentary box.
The hilarious sequence ended with the quip, “On that pest control note, we take a break.”
Ground staff fumigate pitch after delay
As the insects persisted, officials decided to halt play completely six overs later, allowing ground staff to fumigate the pitch and the surrounding areas. The 15-minute stoppage did not affect the number of overs, and the match resumed soon after under slightly clearer conditions.
India maintain control despite interruption
Before the delay, Pakistan had won the toss and opted to bowl first. Harleen Deol narrowly missed a half-century as India posted 154 for 4 in 34 overs.
For Pakistan, Diana Baig, Sadia Iqbal, Fatima Sana, and Rameen Shamim each claimed a wicket.
Despite the interruption, the match proceeded smoothly after the fumigation, with the unusual insect invasion becoming one of the most talked-about moments of the tournament so far.