The cricketing spectacle in Colombo was marred by the unrelenting downpour, with the Super Fours clash of the 2023 Asia Cup featuring arch-rivals India and Pakistan being reluctantly pushed to the Reserve Day due to the relentless rain that showed no mercy. The proceedings came to an abrupt halt after 24.1 overs into the Indian innings on that fateful Sunday, September 10. Unfortunately, the waterlogged outfield at the hallowed R Premadasa Stadium made any hopes of resuming the game futile.
The persistent inclement weather in Colombo not only cast a shadow over the much-anticipated match but also etched a significant chapter in the annals of ODI Cricket. This Monday's encounter marks the maiden instance where India and Pakistan are set to lock horns on the designated Reserve Day. India's last tryst with an ODI on a Reserve Day dates back to the heart-wrenching semi-final loss to New Zealand during the 2019 World Cup at Old Trafford in Manchester. Conversely, Pakistan's most recent tango with an ODI on the Reserve Day took place in August 1992 against England at the revered Lord's Cricket Ground.
On that fateful Sunday, the game was unfolding quite promisingly, with India firmly positioned at 147 for 2 after 24.1 overs when the heavens opened up, compelling the players to seek refuge off the field. The Indian side had embarked on a scintillating journey, with openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill setting the stage ablaze with half-centuries and forging a dynamic opening partnership of 121 runs. However, nature's vagaries played the role of an unwanted intruder, leading to the suspension of the match for the day.
Rohit and Gill had masterfully countered the formidable Pakistan pace-bowling attack, brilliantly compensating for their prior struggles during the Group A encounter in Pallekele just a week ago. After their departure, the mantle of responsibility was assumed by the formidable duo of Virat Kohli and K L Rahul, standing at 8 and 17 runs, respectively, when the relentless rain inundated the stadium.
Despite the vexatious interruption, there remains a glimmer of hope. The fixture has thoughtfully been allocated a Reserve Day, ensuring that the battle will recommence precisely from the point it left off on that Sunday. This equitable provision guarantees both teams a fair opportunity to engage in a complete 50-over-a-side contest.
The atmosphere at the RPS was laden with frustration as the spectators from both camps endured the agonizing wait. The game had commenced amid sweltering and humid conditions earlier in the afternoon, but the whims of the weather proved unforgiving.
Â
