5 weird reasons that interrupted play during a cricket match ft. flying ants

The game of cricket is known for its traditions, intense moments, thrilling action, and loads of drama. Several unpredictable things can and have happened in the game time and again.

At times, a cricket match has been interrupted in between as well. Common reasons are always due to rain or wet outfields. However, sometimes the factors that cause a halt in the proceedings can be truly bizarre.

Several unusual occurrences have taken place that have led to cricket matches witnessing a series of interruptions, leaving the fans scratching their heads as well. Apart from the usual rain delays, these incidents have added an element of surprise, reminding us that cricket, like any other sport, is often at the mercy of external factors beyond anybody's control.

Having said that, here are five of the weirdest reasons why play has been interrupted during a cricket match, showing another 'unpredictable' side of the game.

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5 weird reasons that interrupted play during a cricket match

#5 Unmarked 30-yard circle: India vs West Indies, 3rd T20I 2023

Sometimes, even the most basic of things can cause a delay in cricket, as was evident during the third T20I between India and West Indies in 2023. Players and umpires had already taken the field and were preparing to begin the match when it was discovered that the 30-yard circle, a crucial aspect of the field, had not been marked.

Despite the fact that rain was predicted for the match at the Providence Stadium in Guyana, the delay was caused by this simple yet unacceptable oversight. While the interruption lasted only a few minutes, it was certainly one of the most bizarre reasons for a delay in an international game of cricket.

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#4 Delayed lunch over halal mix-up: South Africa vs Bangladesh Test, 2024

In Bloemfontein, a seemingly innocent delay in the delivery of food led to an unexpected delay during the second Test between South Africa and Bangladesh. The lunch break was delayed by 10 minutes when the halal meal for the Bangladesh team did not arrive at the expected time.

A mix-up with the printed menus resulted in the delay, as a result of which the Bangladesh players had to wait while South Africa's top order carried on their dominance on the field. Even with all the confusion going around, the Proteas put on 256 runs and a food-related hiccup became an attraction in a day of cricket that saw the home side in control.

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#3 Bee ambush: South Africa vs Sri Lanka, Durham ODI, 2019

Bees have developed a reputation for causing interruptions during cricket matches. However, the ODI game between Sri Lanka and South Africa at Durham in 2019 added a memorable yet bizarre moment to this unusual trend.

With Sri Lanka struggling at 194/8, a swarm of bees took over the field, causing the players to take cover. Isuru Udana and Suranga Lakmal, Sri Lanka's batters at the crease during the time, were seen lying flat on the ground to avoid the bees.

The interruption lasted long enough for laughter and bemusement to spread among the players and fans before the bees eventually moved on. The game resumed, but the sight of players ducking for cover became a lasting memory of that encounter.

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#2 Sunlight halts play: India vs New Zealand, Napier ODI, 2019

While rain is a frequent culprit in delaying cricket matches, the sun caused a disruption once too. In an ODI game between India and New Zealand at McLean Park, Napier, in 2019, it was not the weather but the blinding sunlight that halted play.

Shikhar Dhawan, while batting, was completely blinded by the sun hitting directly into his eyes, leaving the umpires with no option but to call for a break. While this was not the first time Napier had experienced sun-related interruptions, the event highlighted how the orientation of some venues can sometimes affect play.

Many domestic cricket matches in countries like New Zealand and England have been affected due to the setting sun.

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#1 Flying ant invasion: India vs South Africa, 3rd T20I, 2024

In one of the most unusual delays, a swarm of flying ants took over during the recent third T20I between South Africa and India in Centurion. India had set a strong total of 219/6, and South Africa was preparing to begin their chase when the uninvited insects swarmed the field, causing a commotion. Arshdeep Singh initially attempted to bowl the first over amidst the insect invasion, but the umpires soon paused the game to protect the players.

The stadium screen announced: "Play suspended due to flying ants interfering with play." After a 30-minute break and a thorough inspection of the field, officials deemed it safe to resume the match. Though the flying ants eventually dispersed, their unexpected visit added a quirky twist to the game.