The much-anticipated Super 4 match between arch-rivals India and Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2023 has been granted a reserve day due to impending rain forecasts. The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) made this crucial decision to ensure the completion of this high-stakes encounter at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo.
In a statement, the ACC clarified that if adverse weather conditions disrupt play on the originally scheduled day of September 10, the match would resume on September 11 from where it left off. Ticket-holders were advised that their tickets would remain valid for the reserve day.
Notably, this India-Pakistan clash is the only Super 4 game with a reserve day, a testament to its significance in the cricketing world. Initially, there were discussions about relocating matches to Hambantota due to the rain threat, but the ACC reaffirmed the games’ location in Colombo, which led to some contention with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
The history of rain affecting India-Pakistan encounters in this tournament continued, with a previous match abandoned due to persistent rain in Kandy. With a 90% chance of precipitation on the horizon, both teams will be closely monitoring the weather. Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah’s potential return and KL Rahul’s participation are among the key factors to watch if the skies clear, as both teams aim for victory in this much-anticipated clash.