Following a washed-out match in Kandy last week, India and Pakistan are set to face each other once more in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023 this Sunday. Both teams secured convincing victories against Nepal, earning their spots in the Super Fours of this continental event. However, fans should prepare for potential disappointment as it appears that rain is likely to disrupt the highly anticipated Super Four clash in Colombo between these arch-rivals.
Throughout the Asia Cup games held in Sri Lanka, weather conditions have consistently played a pivotal role. India’s group-stage matches were also affected by rain, and the same weather-related challenges are expected when they meet Pakistan on Sunday.
The prospects for a complete match at the R Premadasa Stadium later this week appear bleak, with the weather forecast indicating a probability of over 70 percent precipitation in the morning. While the temperature is anticipated to decrease gradually throughout the day, the threat of rain remains particularly high, especially at the beginning of the game.
As evening approaches, the temperature is set to drop by several degrees, and there are no indications of clear skies on the horizon. In fact, the rain is anticipated to intensify as the night progresses.
It’s not just the game against Pakistan; India’s upcoming two Super Four matches against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are also at risk of weather interruptions. The match against Sri Lanka, scheduled for September 12 at the same venue, is predicted to have a 40 percent chance of rain and dense cloud cover, according to the forecast.
It’s worth noting that Colombo is expected to experience heavy showers on the eve of the IND vs SL clash, specifically on September 11.
Nevertheless, India’s final Super Four clash against Bangladesh on September 15 may enjoy more favorable playing conditions, with a lower percentage of precipitation and reduced cloud cover compared to the preceding days.
Previously, there were indications that the Asian Cricket Council might relocate the venues for the final stage of the Asia Cup from Colombo to Hambantota to mitigate the risk of rain disruptions. However, on Tuesday, the ACC conveyed to the stakeholders that the tournament would proceed as originally planned, with all matches taking place in Colombo.
This decision did not sit well with Sethi, who criticized the ACC led by Jay Shah and questioned whether India was apprehensive about facing Pakistan.