Will Rain Disrupt the Women's WC Final Between India and South Africa?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Rain delays the toss and start of play.
- This is India's first WC final at home.
- Excitement remains high among fans despite weather challenges.
- Both teams are aiming for their first-ever title.
- There is a reserve day in case of interruptions.
Navi Mumbai, Nov 2 (NationPress) The toss for the Women's ODI World Cup final featuring India and South Africa at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy has been postponed due to rain. It is anticipated that the toss will take place at 3:00 PM, with the match scheduled to begin at 3:30 PM.
A light drizzle commenced around noon, compelling the ground staff to cover the pitch and keep the players inside the dugout, preventing them from engaging in their pre-match warm-ups.
However, conditions improved around 2:00 PM, just half an hour before the toss, when the rain ceased and the sun made a brief appearance. A wave of excitement surged through the crowd as the ground staff began to remove the covers for an inspection by the umpires, although there were still visible puddles beyond the circle.
Players took to the field for their warm-ups while the ground staff worked to dry the wet patches.
Despite the on-and-off rain since the early morning in Navi Mumbai and the neighboring Thane and Mumbai districts, the enthusiasm of the spectators remains undeterred, with large crowds gathering outside the stadium for this final showdown.
This marks the first time the Indian women's team has reached the World Cup final on home soil, and the excitement is electric. Their remarkable performance against the dethroned champions, Australia, in the semifinals has significantly heightened interest in the match, leading to a surge in ticket demand.
The rain has done little to dampen the spirit of the fans, with the stadium poised to set new attendance records.
Both teams are eager for a historic victory, as neither has won the title before. India has a slight advantage, having reached the final twice before (in 2005 and 2017) and will benefit from the crowd's support. They have played three matches at this venue, while it is South Africa's first appearance in Navi Mumbai during this World Cup.
Fortunately for fans, the match includes a reserve day, ensuring that play can resume from where it left off. Nonetheless, the ICC aims to complete the match today, even if it means a shortened game.