The highly anticipated ODI World Cup 2023 final is set to captivate cricket fans worldwide as hosts India gear up to face five-time champions Australia at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. With both teams displaying exceptional prowess, the stage is set for a thrilling encounter that promises to be a fitting climax to the tournament.
Road to the final
India have emerged as the standout team in the competition, winning all ten matches played so far and securing an undefeated status. Meanwhile, Australia, after facing setbacks in the early stages, displayed resilience to reach the final, overcoming tough opposition South Africa in the second semi-final.
A nostalgic rematch
The final is a reminiscent of the 2003 clash in Johannesburg, where Australia emerged victorious by 125 runs. However, the dynamics have shifted, and the current Indian side under Rohit Sharma appears more formidable than its 2003 counterpart led by Sourav Ganguly.
What if rain disrupts the summit clash?
While the weather forecast for Sunday’s final in Ahmedabad seems favorable, cricketing authorities are well-prepared for unexpected disruptions.
In case rain interrupts play on the scheduled day, the match will extend to a ‘Reserve Day’ on Monday, providing ample time for a conclusive result. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has devised a rule in the event of a washout even after two days, eliminating the controversial boundary-count tiebreaker. Instead, the team with a superior group stage performance will be crowned champions.
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Rain delay protocol
If rain or other unforeseen circumstances cause interruptions, a total of two hours of additional time will be allocated. During this period, no overs will be deducted. However, if the delay exceeds two hours, overs will be deducted according to the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method, with one over deducted for every five minutes lost.
Reserve day criteria
The decision to move the match to the Reserve Day will only be implemented if the minimum required overs (20, according to ICC regulations) cannot be bowled on the scheduled day, Sunday.
As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the epic clash, fans can rest assured that the governing body has implemented comprehensive plans to ensure a fair and decisive outcome, even in the face of unpredictable weather conditions.