India versus Canada's T20 World Cup match has been abandoned due to wet outfield with a ball bowled in Florida on June 15. The inclement weather in Florida continued to play spoilsport as Rohit Sharma-led India ended their Group stage on top with seven points after the washed out match granted one point each to both the sides. The umpires conducted two official inspections and made the final decision by 9 pm IST. This resulted in India missing a chance experiment with their team combination in their final Group A game of the T20 World Cup 2024. Meanwhile, Canada, who were already out of the Super 8 contention, finished third in the group. India and USA are the two teams who have progressed to the Super 8 stage after their stellar performances in Group stage.
With India already qualified for the Super 8s and Canada out of contention, the umpires prioritised player safety and called off the match due to a soggy outfield caused by overnight rain. While ground staff made efforts, the lack of outfield covers left puddles, making conditions unfit for play. This decision disappointed fans who came out in large numbers for the encounter. The Indian team, including coach Rahul Dravid, tried to lift the spirits by interacting with fans and signing autographs during the delay.
Similarly, the crucial Group A match between the USA and Ireland was abandoned without a ball bowled on Friday due to a wet outfield. This unfortunate turn of events resulted in Pakistan's early exit from the tournament, while the co-hosts, USA, secured their passage to both the Super 8s and the next T20 World Cup in 2026. The lack of proper drainage and the absence of outfield covers at this Florida venue significantly impacted the tournament. Three matches in total were affected: Sri Lanka vs Nepal (June 11), USA vs Ireland (June 15), and India vs Canada (June 15).
Rain disrupts Florida matches, Pakistan bow out early
Persistent rain has wreaked havoc on the T20 World Cup matches scheduled in Florida. With flash flood warnings issued, it appears likely that the entire Florida leg of the tournament could be washed out. Pakistan's campaign came to a disappointing end as their final Group A match against Ireland, scheduled for Sunday, is heavily impacted by the weather.
In contrast, India enjoyed a successful run, securing seven points from their four completed matches. They defeated Ireland, Pakistan, and the USA before their final group game was called off. India was, in fact, the first team to qualify for the Super 8s from their group.
The biggest surprise came from the co-hosts, USA. They stunned Pakistan with a thrilling victory, securing a spot in the next round in their debut World Cup appearance. This win also meant Pakistan's early exit from the tournament.
Rohit Sharma's brigade shifts focus on Super 8
Rohit Sharma's brigade will now move to Caribbean leg for the Super 8 drama. India will battle it out in Group 1, facing off against familiar foes Australia and Afghanistan. They'll also encounter either Bangladesh or the Netherlands, who are still vying for the final spot in the group.
On the other hand, Group 2 promises to be equally thrilling. The USA, a surprise qualifier, joins confirmed teams South Africa and West Indies. They'll await the winner of the remaining qualification battle between England and Scotland to complete their group.
The Super 8s kick off on June 19, with all 12 matches spread across four beautiful Caribbean venues: Antigua, Barbados, St Lucia, and St Vincent. After a week of high-octane cricket, the excitement continues with the semifinals. The first one will be held in Trinidad on June 26th, followed by the second in Guyana on June 27. Finally, the hotly anticipated final will take place at Bridgetown's historic Kensington Oval on June 29.
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