India W vs South Africa W: Rain threatens to impact the India vs South Africa Women's World Cup 2025 final at DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai. With a 63% chance of showers, fans wonder who wins if the final gets washed out? Here's what happens if rain spoils play and how the reserve day rule applies. (Image Credit: X/ @ThirdManVibes)
India W vs South Africa W: Much-anticipated final of the ICC Women's World Cup 2025 between India and South Africa at the Dr. D.Y. Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai, promises a mouth-watering clash if the weather permits. Both the teams have reached the peak, as India edged out Australia in a thrilling semi-final, while South Africa stormed past England with an authoritative display.
However, with this title decider gathering momentum, rain clouds loom large over Navi Mumbai, and the weather looks set to have a big say in the outcome of this finale.
A 63% chance of rain has been forecast in Navi Mumbai on Sunday, November 2 - the scheduled day of the Women's World Cup final - according to Accuweather. There is also a 13% probability of thunderstorms, which raises further concern for fans and organizers alike.
The showers are likely to be intermittent, which may cause multiple interruptions or even an abandonment of the game. The DY Patil Stadium has a great drainage system, but this may be challenged by continuous rain, perhaps forcing long delays.
Easing of the weather even for brief intervals will ensure a reduced overs game, and thus a result on the day. The other possibility if rain continues relentlessly could be a washout.
Yes, there is. The ICC has set aside Monday, November 3, as the reserve day for the Women's World Cup final.
If Sunday's play is washed out, the match will resume or restart from the point of interruption on the reserve day.
Match officials will do all in their power to complete the final on the scheduled day first, including reducing overs and extending play beyond the usual hours.
For a valid result, each team needs to bat at least 20 overs. If that condition isn’t met on either day, the final will be declared abandoned.
If Sunday and the reserve day on Monday are also washed out, the trophy will be shared between India and South Africa.
If that happens, no outright champion will be crowned; instead, both teams will be declared joint winners of the ICC Women's World Cup 2025.
Though that outcome would reflect the spirit of fair play, it would undeniably be heartbreaking for players and fans hoping for an outright winner after weeks of intense competition.
Both teams, India seeking their first-ever Women's World Cup title, and South Africa, looking to create their own history, will be praying for the skies to clear in Navi Mumbai.
Temperatures are expected to range between 29°C and 32°C, and humidity will be above 70%. Skies are expected to remain overcast during the day, and light to moderate rain may return in the evening right around the time when the final is due to be played.
The ground staff at DY Patil will have a major role to play in keeping the pitch and outfield playable with the help of super soppers and covers.
That is the question on every fan's mind. As India and South Africa prepare for the biggest game of their careers, weather could yet decide the destiny of the Women's World Cup 2025.
The hope among fans worldwide is for clear skies and an uninterrupted contest that will let the best lift the coveted trophy, not a rain-soaked stalemate that will lead to shared glory.
