The eagerly awaited IPL 2023 final between Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans was marred by persistent rain, forcing the match to be rescheduled to the reserve day. Initially set for Sunday (May 28), the final will now be held on Monday (May 29).
This unprecedented move to utilize the reserve day highlights the impact of unpredictable weather on the tournament. Before the toss could even occur, the skies turned bleak. Although a brief respite provided hope around 9 pm, the storm quickly returned, dashing any chances of play.
Match officials patiently waited a potential window of opportunity, but by 11 pm, they were left with no choice but to call off the day’s proceedings. Despite the excellent drainage facilities at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the unrelenting rain prevented any action from taking place.
Also Read: Narendra Modi Stadium Pitch Report: CSK vs GT IPL 2023 Final Today Match; Rain Impact on Ahmedabad Stadium Pitch
IPL 2023 Final: What if the Reserve Day is Also Washed Out?
Fortunately, the weather forecast for Ahmedabad on Monday appears promising, with reports predicting sunny and breezy conditions throughout the day. The chances of rain during the night are less than 10 percent, with temperatures expected to hover in the early 30s.
While the forecast suggests a low risk of rain disrupting the game tonight, there is always a possibility of inclement weather intervening. Sunday night’s unexpected rain serves as a reminder that nature can still play spoilsport.
If the reserve day also succumbs to a washout and no action can be staged on Monday (May 29), the match will be declared a tie. According to the rules, the team that finished higher in the points table during the league stage will be crowned the winner. Consequently, defending champions Gujarat Titans would triumph over Chennai Super Kings, having topped the table with 20 points compared to the latter’s 17.