In an unprecedented turn of events, the final match of the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL) has been delayed and moved to a reserve day on 29 May, after incessant rain in Ahmedabad on Sunday. This is the first time in 16 seasons that the IPL witnessed the postponement of a final match. The weather forecast did not bode well for the title clash. The extent of the rainfall caught everyone off guard.
After a brief respite around 9 pm, during which groundstaff worked tirelessly to prepare the field, heavy rain returned, undoing their commendable efforts. Disappointed spectators sought shelter once again, as the possibility of a complete game dwindled. The passing of the cut-off time of 12:05 am for a five-over match prompted senior officials to engage in discussions regarding the postponement of the fixture.
The organizers made the decision to move the match as the rain ceased late in the evening. This was to avoid any futile attempts to start the game. The giant screen displayed the announcement for the postponement. It instructed disappointed spectators to retain their physical tickets, which would remain valid for the following day.
The #Final of the #TATAIPL 2023 has been moved to the reserve day on 29th May – 7:30 PM IST at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.
Physical tickets for today will be valid tomorrow. We request you to keep the tickets safe & intact. #CSKvGT pic.twitter.com/d3DrPVrIVD
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 28, 2023
The IPL final, eagerly anticipated by fans and officials alike, now hangs in the balance. The reserve day will bring new challenges and a renewed sense of excitement. However, the logistical hurdles faced by the organizers underscore the impact of unpredictable weather on cricketing events.
According to the weather forecast for Monday, there is a minimal likelihood of rain.
