The 41st match of the ODI World Cup 2023 is set to be a game-changer, with New Zealand facing off against Sri Lanka. This match holds significant importance, not just for these two teams but also for Pakistan and Afghanistan, whose fortunes are tied to the outcome of this game. However, the weather in Bengaluru, the host city, threatens to disrupt the match, with the city under a yellow alert until November 10.
Weather forecast:
Bengaluru has been experiencing heavy rainfall over the past few days, leading to flooding in parts of the city and waterlogging in many areas. The MET department has issued a yellow alert, which is given when the rainfall is between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm in a day.
The forecast for the match day is not promising, with a 99% chance of heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms predicted at 12 p.m. The afternoon also holds a 69% chance of rain, with humidity expected to be at 90%, and temperatures ranging from 20 to 26 degrees.
Impact on the Match:
The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, where the match is scheduled to take place, boasts one of the best drainage facilities among all cricket venues in the country. It can be ready for action within half an hour of rainfall. However, if the showers are relentless and heavy, it might be difficult to get a game.
In the event of a washout, both teams will be awarded one point each, leaving New Zealand with just 9 points after the league stage. This could have significant consequences for the World Cup points table, as New Zealand currently sits at the 4th spot with 8 points in 4 matches and an NRR of +0.398.
Semi-Final Scenarios:
The weather forecast raises concerns about its impact on the ODI World Cup 2023 qualification scenarios. If the match is affected by rain, it could potentially end New Zealand’s journey to the semi-finals.
Among the three teams — New Zealand, Pakistan, and Afghanistan — New Zealand has the best chance to qualify for the semi-finals with a better NRR. If they win their last league match against Sri Lanka, then Pakistan and Afghanistan will have to win their last matches against England and South Africa with big margins to get past New Zealand in the semi-final race.
However, if the game between New Zealand and Sri Lanka washes out, then Pakistan, who are already at 8 points with one match left, will only have to win their last match and they will be through to the semi-finals, assuming that Afghanistan loses their last match against South Africa or doesn’t win that game by a big margin.
In all this, Afghanistan also stands a chance. If New Zealand’s last game is washed out and Pakistan loses against England, Afghanistan will qualify given they beat South Africa at Ahmedabad. But in case, either of the two teams wins then Afghanistan will have to win their last match with a very huge margin against South Africa which is highly unlikely.
With the weather playing a crucial role, the fate of these teams hangs in the balance. As the world watches with bated breath, we can only hope for the best outcome for all teams involved.
