India's build-up to their much-awaited Women's World Cup clash against Pakistan in Colombo had an unusual twist on Friday evening. While the players were shifting from the centre wicket to the nets at the R Premadasa Stadium, training briefly came to a halt when a snake was spotted near the stands.
The moment brought more laughter than fear, with cricketers, staff and media sharing the light-hearted distraction before practice resumed.
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Snake sighting during India's practice session in Colombo
According to on-ground officials, the snake was identified as a common rat snake - locally called "Garandiya" in Sinhalese. Known to be non-venomous and generally harmless, the reptile is a familiar sight at the venue.
Similar incidents have taken place at the same ground during Lanka Premier League matches and even an ODI between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh earlier this year.
"It's not venomous. It doesn't bite. It's a Garandiya, just looking for rats," one ground staff member told local reporters.
Once the snake moved away, India's focus returned to their final training session before Sunday's clash.
India off to a strong start in World Cup campaign
India began their Women's World Cup 2025 run on a winning note - defeating Sri Lanka by 59 runs (DLS) in Guwahati. From a shaky 124 for six, Deepti Sharma (53) and Amanjot Kaur (57) rescued the innings with a 103-run stand - lifting the side to 269 for eight in 47 overs.
The bowling unit then sealed the game. They dismissed Sri Lanka for 211 in front of a record 22,843 fans: the highest attendance for a Women's World Cup group-stage game.
Pakistan under pressure after opening defeat
Pakistan slipped to a seven-wicket loss against Bangladesh in their first match. Bowled out for 129, they had little answer to the Bangladeshi spinners. Bangladesh chased down the target with ease in just over 31 overs.
With contrasting starts, both teams enter Sunday's clash in Colombo with different challenges. India will look to carry momentum forward while Pakistan must regroup quickly if they are to compete in one of the most anticipated fixtures of the tournament.
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