T20 World Cup semifinals face wet weather challenge
With the semifinals of the highly anticipated T20 World Cup just a day away, persistent rain predictions has dampened the spirits of both fans and teams in the Caribbean. Afghanistan will take on South Africa in the first last four clash at Tarouba in Trinidad on Thursday morning according to local time. However, overcast conditions are expected throughout the day threatening to disrupt the historic meeting between these two nations playing in their maiden semifinal. Rain is not predicted but an overcast outlook may not allow for a full match if play is delayed.
The much anticipated second semifinal featuring 2007 champions India taking on 2010 winners England promises to be a thriller. But weather forecasts continue to be gloomy for Guyana where the match is scheduled to start at 10:30am on Thursday. Passing showers are predicted through the morning which could impact the game. Even more concerning is the increasing rain probability as evening approaches, right during the crucial closing stages. With no reserve day available unlike the first semifinal, disruptions seem very possible for this marquee clash.
In case either or both semifinals cannot be completed on the scheduled day, the original group toppers will progress to the finals based on ICC playing conditions. This means South Africa will make the summit clash if their game is washed out along with Afghanistan given they finished at the top of Group 2. India will also qualify by default over England for finishing higher during the group stage if rain plays spoilsport in Guyana. While the final on Saturday has a backup day, a complete washout over both days will result in the finalists being declared joint winners. Fans and players will be keeping their fingers crossed for favorable conditions during the semifinals.
