Asia Cup 2023: India vs Pakistan clash gets Reserve Day amidst rain threat

A reserve day has been added to the India vs. Pakistan Super Four match of the Asia Cup, set for September 10, marking the only match, apart from the final, to include a reserved day. This decision comes after rain disruptions in earlier matches. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officially announced this change in playing conditions and advised spectators to retain their tickets in case the reserve day is required.

The goal is to complete the match on the originally scheduled day, even if it means shortening the contest. However, if the reserve day is activated, the match’s duration will remain the same as it was on the last ball of day one.

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This decision has stirred mixed reactions within the cricketing community. Bangladesh coach Chandika Hathurusinghe expressed surprise and mentioned that he hadn’t witnessed such rule changes in other tournaments. He emphasized the importance of prior consultation and understanding the reasons behind this decision.

Sri Lanka coach Chris Silverwood shared his surprise as well but acknowledged the limited influence teams have on tournament organization and scheduling.

With a significant threat of rain looming over the India vs Pakistan match on Sunday, where there is up to a 90% chance of precipitation, the addition of a reserve day provides hope for a full contest. It also raises expectations for the return of India’s star bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, who missed the Nepal fixture due to the birth of his child. Bumrah, returning from a back injury, is yet to bowl in an ODI leading up to the World Cup next month, making his potential return an eagerly awaited event in the cricketing world.