India vs West Indies 5th T20I: Will Rain Spoil the Series Decider? Check Bengaluru Weather Forecast

Bengaluru: The five-match T20 series between India and West Indies has now reached a decisive turn. After the first four matches of the series, both the teams are tied at 2-2. In such a situation, the fifth T20 match to be held on Saturday, October 17 at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, will decide the winner of the series. However, before this important match, the weather has increased the concern of cricket lovers. The weather forecast predicts rain and thundershowers, which may impact the timely start of the match and playing of the entire overs. 

Can rain spoil the excitement of the match?

Given the possibility of rain in Bengaluru on Saturday evening, the match may be affected by the weather. According to the available forecasts, there is a possibility of rain in the evening and its effect can be seen from the toss to the initial overs. The match is scheduled to start at 7 pm IST. If the ground remains wet due to rain, the toss may be delayed. In case of continuous rain, the overs of the match can also be reduced. However, the weather forecast keeps changing, so the latest information on match day will be important. 

What is the weather forecast?

Weather reports indicate the possibility of rain from evening to night. Some forecasts suggest a higher chance of rain around the start of the match. The temperature during the match is expected to be around 21 to 22 degrees Celsius, while the humidity in the atmosphere may also be quite high. In such circumstances, players may have to adjust to the wet ball and field conditions. Even after the rain stops, inspection of the field and outfield will be necessary before starting the game.

Can the drainage system of Chinnaswamy Stadium provide relief?

M. Chinnaswamy Stadium has a modern sub-air drainage system. After the rain stops, it helps in removing water from the field and resuming the game. This is the reason why there can be hope of resumption of the match after light or temporary rain. However, despite this arrangement, there may be difficulty in starting the game if there is continuous heavy rain. In such a situation, the final decision will be taken only after inspection of the field condition and match officials. 

What is the challenge before India?

The fourth match of the series was disappointing for India. Batting first, West Indies scored 247 runs, in response to which the Indian team was reduced to 223 runs. The Caribbean team won the match by 24 runs and levelled the series 2-2. Now in the fifth match, India will have a chance to win the series on home ground, while West Indies will go in with the confidence of their previous victory. 

How will the equation of competition change if the match is shortened?

If the overs in the match are reduced due to rain, then there may be a change in the strategy of both the teams. In short overs matches, the batsmen will have to score runs quickly, while it will be important for the bowlers to take early wickets. If necessary, the target can be amended under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) rule. Cricket fans will now keep an eye on the weather as well as the preparations of both the teams, because the result of this match will decide the trophy of the series.