WTC Final, India vs New Zealand, Southampton Weather: Rain Threat Looms Large
The rain gods are yet again set to play a part on Day 3, and the WTC final could see some more weather interruptions.
Highlights
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Rain is expected to play a part on Day 3 of the WTC final
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As per the weather forecast, it will be cloudy with intermittent showers
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Day 1 of the WTC final was washed out without a ball being bowled
The ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) final in Southampton has been blighted by inclement weather. The first day of the WTC final was completely washed out while the second day saw bad light causing interruptions before an early close of play. Fans at least witnessed some fine batting performances on Day 2 with captain Virat Kohli leading India's charge. Kohli and his deputy Ajinkya Rahane will be hoping to extend India's slight advantage on Day 3 -- weather permitting. A look at the weather forecast for Sunday in Southampton makes for grim reading.
The rain gods are yet again set to play a part in the WTC final, and Day 3 could see weather interruptions again. According to the AccuWeather website, much of the day will be cloudy with intermittent showers expected through out the day.
Fans and even the players will be hoping for a full day's play but the chances of that happening don't look good. With intermittent rain around, wet outfield comes into play as well and cause delays.Â
Day 2 saw the match beginning on its scheduled time, with New Zealand winning the toss and electing to bowl in what looked like helpful conditions for the seamers.
But the Kiwi pacers didn't take full advantage of that as Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill gave India a solid start with a 62-run stand. Both openers though fell in quick succession before lunch.
Cheteshwar Pujara could only manage eight runs before falling prey to Trent Boult.
Virat Kohli then took the bull by the horns and produced a fine knock in the company of Rahane to put India in a strong position.
The Indian skipper was batting on 44 while Rahane was unbeaten on 29 when bad light brought an early close to play on Day 2.
Towering quick Kyle Jamieson ended the day with remarkable figures of 1-14 in 14 overs. Only 64.4 overs out of 180 scheduled for the first two days have so far been bowled.
India Cricket Team
New Zealand Cricket Team
Virat Kohli
Ajinkya Rahane