Rain Disrupts India's Tour Match Opening Day; 50 Overs Per Side Scheduled for Sunday
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Canberra, Nov 30 (NationPress) The initial day of India's two-day tour match against the Prime Minister's XI was completely canceled because of rain at Manuka Oval on Saturday. With just one day of play left, a 50-over match for each side is confirmed for Sunday.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced this decision on its official 'X' account, stating, "Update: PM’s XI vs India - Manuka Oval. Day 1 play has been called off and will continue tomorrow (Sunday) at 9:10 am IST. The coin toss is scheduled for 8:40 am IST. Both teams have consented to play 50 overs each."
Continuous rainfall disrupted the first day of this pink-ball tour match before the Indian team faces Australia in the second Test in Adelaide on December 6.
Rain persisted from around 10 am to 5:30 pm (local time), leaving minimal chance for play as the covers remained securely in place. The Indian squad made a brief appearance at the ground but left shortly after due to the unfavorable conditions.
A slight break in the rain later in the day led to some activity, with the covers being taken off and umpires meeting with team support staff. However, the ground staff eventually replaced the covers and departed at 6:30 pm, indicating no further play. Heavy rain returned at 7 pm, officially eliminating any chance of resuming play.
Before the eagerly awaited pink-ball clash, the Indian team has one last opportunity on Sunday to adjust to match conditions ahead of the day-night Test. The availability of Rohit Sharma for the second Test is a significant advantage for India, while Australia will be missing pacer Josh Hazlewood, who played a key role in India's infamous 36 all-out in 2020 in Adelaide.
