Kandy, Sri Lanka – The third match of the highly anticipated Asia Cup between arch-rivals India and Pakistan has been marred by persistent rain interruptions, leaving cricket fans on the edge of their seats. Following the completion of India’s innings, the inclement weather once again interfered with the match proceedings.
The Meteorological Department has issued an estimate suggesting the likelihood of heavy rainfall on Saturday, further fueling concerns about the match’s fate. Up until now, the rain has disrupted play for approximately one hour, leaving both teams and fans anxiously awaiting a conclusion.
The looming question on everyone’s mind is what happens if the match succumbs to the relentless rain showers.
As per the tournament rules, an official result can only be declared if both teams complete a minimum of 20 overs each. In the event that this threshold isn’t reached, despite persistent efforts and delays, the points will be shared equally between India and Pakistan, with each team receiving one point.
Now, let’s explore the scenarios that might unfold if the match is canceled or washed out.
Situation in Pallekele#INDvsPAK | #AsiaCup2023 | #PAKvsIND | #INDvPAKpic.twitter.com/TDKwRr3cy6
— Ehtisham Siddique (@iMShami_) September 2, 2023
Match Cancellation or Abandonment:
In the unfortunate event of match cancellation, Pakistan would secure three points, bolstering their position in the tournament. Conversely, India would be credited with just one point from the abandoned fixture.
It’s worth noting that Pakistan has already triumphed over Nepal, the third team in Group ‘A’. As a result, Nepal’s point tally remains at zero. In light of this, India would need to secure a victory against Nepal at any cost to advance to the ‘Super Four’ stage of the Asia Cup.
In terms of the match’s proceedings, India set a formidable target of 267 runs for Pakistan to chase down. Their innings concluded at 266 runs in 48.5 overs, presenting Pakistan with a challenging task.
The Indian team faced early adversity after losing crucial wickets when Pakistan’s fast bowlers, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf, struck early. However, Hardik Pandya and Ishaan Kishan displayed remarkable resilience, with Pandya amassing 87 runs and Kishan contributing 82 runs to the team’s total.
Following the dismissals of Pandya and Kishan, Ravindra Jadeja and Shardul Thakur provided some resistance, but Pakistan’s bowlers continued to make inroads. Shaheen Shah Afridi emerged as Pakistan’s leading wicket-taker with four dismissals, while Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah each claimed three wickets.
