The much-anticipated first day of the Test series between India and New Zealand was washed out due to persistent rain at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, leaving the start of the match delayed. With rain continuing through the day, the fixture has now been reduced to a four-day affair, with both teams hoping for better weather in the coming days.
The day began with some optimism as Bengaluru’s forecasted heavy rains skirted the city, but intermittent drizzle lingered, and by 2:30 PM, a heavy downpour ensured that no play would be possible. Despite the stadium’s sub-air drainage system, which can drain up to 10,000 liters of water per minute, the rain proved too much to overcome. The match officials were hopeful early in the day, but by mid-afternoon, it became clear that no cricket would be possible.
Implications of the Weather Disruption
With the Test now set to last only four days, the follow-on rule will be adjusted. In the case of a team wishing to enforce the follow-on, they will now need to have a lead of 150 runs instead of the usual 200. This change reflects the reduced time available for both teams and will impact the strategies moving forward.
Extended Playing Hours
In a bid to make up for lost time, play will start 15 minutes earlier and end 15 minutes later for the remainder of the Test, allowing for 98 overs to be bowled each day. In the event of slow over rates, an extra half-hour will be available to ensure the match is completed within the revised schedule.
New Zealand’s Wait for Action Continues
This is the latest in a series of rain-impacted days for New Zealand’s Test tour of India. The team has now experienced six consecutive days of rain-affected cricket in India, starting with their ill-fated match against Afghanistan in Greater Noida, where the weather and poor playing conditions led to an early abandonment.
Both teams will now be hoping for clearer skies and better conditions to finally get the series underway. The second day of the Test is expected to be crucial, with both teams preparing for the challenges posed by a shortened match.