Finally, the T20 World Cup 2022 has gotten its two finalist teams in England and Pakistan who will clash for the title glory at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Sunday, November 13.
In what many say is the repeat of the famous 1992 World Cup final, in which these two teams had met, there is a genuine fear of rain playing spoilsport. Three league matches were abandoned at this venue in this tournament due to heavy rain and forecasts predict rain not only on match day on Sunday, but reserve day Monday, November 14 as well.
As per a Fox Cricket report, the organizers have looked to take what could prove a crucial step in tinkering with its own playing conditions.
The Fox reported: “Monday’s reserve day could stretch from its scheduled 3 pm start time well into the night to ensure a match can be played. The change is yet to be officially ratified but looks to have the support of teams and officials.
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MCG curators will use extra covers over the weekend to give the field the maximum chance of weathering the downfall predicted during the day on Sunday and still be capable of a quick start if the clouds clear.”
Rain at MCG played a huge role in hosts Australia’s exit from the tournament as their match with England was washed out, denying Aaron Finch-led side a chance to clash with Jos Buttler and his side in a must-win clash which effectively knocked them out of the tourney.
As per the Bureau of Meteorology, there is a 95 percent chance of rain (8 to 20 mm) in Melbourne on Sunday. More than 90,000 spectators are expected to be present at the MCG.
Monday has been set as a reserve day with a 3 PM local time (9:30 AM IST) slot allocated for the final if the play is not possible on Sunday. In addition to that two extra hours are granted for completing the final if rain should interrupt.
The Bureau of Meteorology has also issued a forecast of heavy rain for Monday (November 14) as well.
The T20 World Cup playing conditions state: “Every effort will be made to complete the match on the scheduled day. Only if the minimum number of overs necessary to constitute a match cannot be bowled on the scheduled day will the match be completed on the reserve day.”
Pakistan had beaten New Zealand in the first semi-final, while England decimated India in the second semifinal to reach the finals. A win for either team in the final will make them two-time T20 World Champions as Pakistan had previously lifted the title in 2009 and England in 2010.
(Fox Sports/IndianExpress inputs)
