Ahead of Pakistan game, snake scare headlines India training session at R Premadasa Stadium

During their training session at R Premadasa Stadium on Friday, the Indian women's cricket team encountered a non-venomous common rat snake. This familiar reptile, often seen at the venue, moved along drains, creating a light-hearted moment for players and staff. India is preparing for their World Cup match against Pakistan.

Pakistan and India flags (AP Photo/Altaf Qadri)

The Indian women's cricket team encountered an unexpected visitor during their training session at the R Premadasa Stadium on Friday evening - a snake. The reptile, known as a common rat snake or "Garandiya" in Sinhalese, is a familiar sight at this venue, having appeared during Lanka Premier League matches and a Sri Lanka-Bangladesh ODI in July.

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"It's not venomous. It doesn't bite. It's a Garandiya, just looking for rats," a ground official said. The greyish-brown snake was observed moving along the drains and stands while the Indian players were transitioning from the centre wicket to the nets area. The presence of the reptile created a light-hearted atmosphere, drawing amused reactions from Indian cricketers, support staff, and media representatives. The Indian team is scheduled to face Pakistan in their second World Cup match at this venue on Sunday. Bangladesh dominated Pakistan, securing a seven-wicket win after chasing 130 with ease in their tournament opener, reaching 131 for 3 in 31.1 overs. Opener Rubya Haider anchored the innings with an unbeaten 54, supported by Sobhana Mostary’s 24 not out, while Shorna Akter (3 wickets), Marufa Akter, and Nahida Akter (two each) dismantled Pakistan’s 129 all-out. In Guwahati, India thrashed Sri Lanka by 59 runs in a rain-affected ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 opener. Chasing a revised DLS target of 271, Sri Lanka managed 211, with Inoka Ranaweera taking four wickets. Deepti Sharma was player of the match, and Amanjot Kaur top-scored for India. The 13th edition features eight teams competing in 28 round-robin matches across India and Colombo, with the highly anticipated India-Pakistan clash set for Sunday.

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