IND vs PAK | Will rain play spoilsport between India vs Pakistan on Reserve Day in Colombo as well?

After enduring a rain-induced washout during the group stage of the 2023 Asia Cup, rivals India and Pakistan found themselves once again caught in a downpour during their Super 4 clash on September 10 (Sunday). Pakistan won the toss and chose to field, but fortune didn't favour them as Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill exhibited their prowess by each reaching their respective half-centuries. 

Their formidable opening partnership thrived until Rohit departed after scoring 56 runs, followed shortly by Gill, who left the pitch with 58 runs to his name.

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Virat Kohli, with 8 runs, and KL Rahul, with 17, were steadying the ship when the rain interrupted play. Unfortunately, the precipitation showed no signs of relenting, and even if it had, the pitch and outfield remained waterlogged, rendering it impossible to resume the game.

Now, the question looms: will rain once again cast a shadow over the Reserve Day?

Much to the relief of cricket enthusiasts from India and Pakistan, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has designated September 11 (Monday) as the reserve day for this highly anticipated showdown. However, the weather forecast for Colombo on the reserve day doesn't offer much optimism. 

The city is expected to be plagued by thunderstorms on both days, with the likelihood of rain reaching as high as 93 per cent. Consequently, the chances of a full-fledged 50-over contest appear slim, even if the match extends to the reserve day.

In the event of a match cancellation, both teams will be awarded one point each, allowing Pakistan to maintain its leading position in the Super 4 standings.

The looming threat of rain, with a probability exceeding 90 per cent during the afternoon and evening, could significantly impact the India vs. Pakistan clash. 

Fortunately, having completed 24 overs already, a 3 PM start on the reserve day provides a bit more flexibility to salvage a complete match.