The stage is set for a thrilling finale of the 2024 T20 World Cup between India and South Africa in Barbados, but the weather forecast is indicating a potential rain threat that could disrupt the highly anticipated match. Both teams have showcased their unbeaten form throughout the tournament, with India overcoming England in a rain-affected semi-final and South Africa securing a convincing victory over Afghanistan. As per the weather reports, Barbados is expected to experience ‘light to moderate’ showers on Saturday, the day of the final, with chances of thunderstorms as well. Accuweather has predicted a 46 per cent chance of rain in Barbados, particularly in the morning hours leading up to the match.
In case rain interrupts the final showdown, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has a reserve day allocated for Sunday, where the match will be rescheduled if it cannot be completed on the initial day. The playing conditions specify that if the minimum required overs for a match cannot be bowled on the scheduled day, the contest will be continued on the reserve day with necessary adjustments. Additionally, a minimum of 10 overs per side is mandatory for a match to be considered complete, ensuring a fair outcome even in case of rain interruptions.
Considering the significance of the final and the high stakes involved for both teams, the possibility of a washout disrupting the match is a cause for concern. Should the T20 World Cup final be abandoned due to rain, the result will be deemed as a ‘no result’, and India and South Africa will be declared joint-winners of the tournament. Fans and cricket enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the outcome of this historic final, hoping that the weather gods will show mercy and allow a full game to take place between two powerhouse teams vying for T20 glory.
