NEW DELHI
Arch-rivals India and Pakistan are gearing up for a much-anticipated showdown in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023. The clash, originally scheduled for September 2 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele, ended in disappointment as it got washed out due to relentless rain.
Now, the stage is set for a rematch in the Super Fours, scheduled for Sunday, September 10, at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. However, weather forecasts for the capital city of Sri Lanka aren’t painting an optimistic picture for cricket enthusiasts.
According to the latest weather reports, there is a staggering 90% chance of rain during both daytime and night time on September 10 in Colombo. Additionally, a warning of thunderstorms has been issued, raising concerns about the match’s fate.
Former Zimbabwean cricketer Christopher Mpofu shed light on rumours regarding a venue change for the Super Fours during an exclusive interview on the 1XBAT cricket show. He disclosed that discussions about relocating the matches to Hambantota had taken place due to the unpredictable weather in Colombo. However, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) ultimately decided to keep the Super Fours and final matches in Colombo.
Mpofu explained, “The ACC engaged in discussions with Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), the host Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), and the official broadcaster before concluding that Colombo would remain the host city.”
He also mentioned the logistical challenges of moving equipment and staff at such short notice, as cited by the broadcaster. Hambantota had been considered an alternate venue due to its drought conditions in recent weeks. However, other options, including Pallekele and Dambulla, were briefly explored before being abandoned. Dambulla’s Rangiri International Stadium is currently undergoing maintenance, including the installation of new floodlights and other facilities.
Regarding the R. Premadasa Stadium’s pitch, Mpofu noted its consistent favouring of spin bowlers. As the game progresses, the track tends to slow down, making run-scoring a challenge for batsmen. Fast bowlers, on the other hand, often struggle to make an impact. Despite these challenges, patient batting can yield substantial runs, promising an exciting and closely contested match.
Mpofu also highlighted the impact of rain on playing conditions, suggesting that the team winning the toss would likely choose to field first to exploit the rain’s advantage.
India and Pakistan have a storied history in the ODI Asia Cup, having faced each other 13 times. India maintains a slight lead with seven victories, while Pakistan has won five matches, and one ended inconclusively. Including T20 matches in the Asia Cup, the rivals have met 17 times, with India winning nine and Pakistan winning six, while two matches concluded without a result.
Pakistan has a record for posting high scores in the Asia Cup, with a notable 385-run achievement against Bangladesh in 2010. India’s highest score in the tournament stands at 374 runs, achieved against Hong Kong in 2008. With the current conditions, this record could be in jeopardy, adding an extra layer of excitement to the upcoming clash.
As cricket fans eagerly await the India-Pakistan clash on September 10, they are hoping that the weather gods will be kind, allowing the arch-rivals to deliver another memorable contest on the field.
Sunil Yash Kalra is a Women’s Cricket Historian and the founder of Indian Sports Fans.
