The cricket world watched in anticipation as the skies at the Premadasa stadium in Colombo opened up, momentarily halting the on-field action Asia Cup's Super Fours clash between India and Pakistan. The interruption came after the Indian duo, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, showcased a batting masterclass during the first powerplay, each clinching half-centuries.
India's score stood at a promising 147/2 in 24.1 overs when rain played the uninvited guest. At the time of the interruption, KL Rahul, who stepped in for Shreyas Iyer, was not out on 17, while the Indian captain, Virat Kohli, was getting into his stride with 8 runs.
If in case the match between India and Pakistan doesn't resume on Sunday, the game will pick up where it left off on Monday as the ACC, anticipating the unpredictability of weather, had wisely incorporated a reserve day specifically for high-voltage drama.
"A reserve day has been incorporated for the Asia Cup 2023 Super 4's match between Pakistan and India scheduled to take place on 10th September 2023 at R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo," the ACC said in a statement.
"If adverse weather suspends play during the Pakistan vs India game, the match will continue on 11th September 2023 from the point it was suspended," the statement added."
It's worth noting that such a provision is absent for other Super 4 matches in the tournament. This exceptional consideration is in recognition of the significant viewership and revenue that an India-Pakistan match garners for broadcasters.
Unfortunately, this isn't the first rain-induced interruption for the teams. A previous group stage game between India and Pakistan was entirely washed out due to relentless rain during the second innings.
Weather predictions for the ongoing match day and the reserve day aren't very promising, with forecasts suggesting 'more than 90 percent cloud cover and potential thunderstorms'. Regardless, fans across the globe remain hopeful for resumption of the India vs Pakistan's clash.
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