In a highly anticipated Super Four match at R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, Pakistan and India are gearing up to resume their Asia Cup 2023 clash today. However, the unpredictable Colombo weather has cast a shadow of uncertainty over the game.
Rain played spoilsport during the previous encounters, causing frustration among fans. Furthermore, Jay Shah, the President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), has faced criticism for relocating the tournament due to concerns about security and economic conditions in Pakistan.
The first match between arch-rivals Pakistan and India was washed out entirely, leaving the Green Shirts waiting for their chance to bat. The second encounter on Sunday witnessed only 24.1 overs of play before rain halted proceedings. This time, authorities planned for such contingencies, designating a reserve day for the Super Four clash—the only match besides the final to receive this advantage.
As play was paused on Sunday, India stood at 147/2 in 24.1 overs. Virat Kohli and KL Rahul will continue their innings when the match recommences.
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However, the rain threat continues to loom large. The Weather Channel’s forecast suggests an 87% chance of thunderstorms at 2:30 pm, with the match scheduled to start at 3 pm local time (2:30 pm PST). While storms may subside by 4 pm, there remains a possibility of more later in the evening, with an 80% chance of thunderstorms at 7:30 pm.
A minimum of 20 overs must be bowled in each inning to achieve a result. If today’s match is also washed out, both teams will earn one point each, propelling Pakistan to the top of the Super Four rankings due to their victory against Bangladesh. India is slated to face Sri Lanka in their next match on Tuesday.
Former cricketer Wasim Akram provided a weather update from Colombo, indicating that although the weather appeared fine at the moment, it could change as the game approached. He acknowledged the frustration of fans and expressed hope for a rain-free match.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) informed fans on social media that tickets from the previous day could be used for today’s match.
In the previous encounter, Rohit Sharma (56) and Shubman Gill (58) provided a strong start for India, forming a partnership of 121 off 100 balls. However, Pakistan’s Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah made their presence felt with impressive spells, causing discomfort for the Indian batsmen. Rain interrupted play as Virat Kohli and KL Rahul aimed to rebuild.
The decision to relocate the Asia Cup from Pakistan stemmed from concerns about security and the economic situation in the country. Jay Shah emphasized that the move aimed to prioritize player well-being and the overall interests of the sport, ensuring a competitive and successful tournament while preparing the participating teams for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
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Should further matches be washed out, Pakistan and Sri Lanka would advance to the final, each securing four points. India would secure the third spot in the Super Four points table with three points, while Bangladesh would gain only one point, having faced defeat in both their Super Four matches.