Rain Washes Out Day 1 Of India’s Tour Match Against PM’s XI; Play To Resume Sunday

Rain washed out the opening day of India’s two-day tour match against the Prime Minister’s XI at Manuka Oval on Saturday. With only one day of play remaining, the match will now reduced to 50 overs per side, with play likely to begin on Sunday morning.

Taking to X, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) posted, “Update: PM’s XI v India – Manuka Oval. Play has been abandoned for Day 1 and will resume tomorrow (Sunday) at 9:10 AM IST. Coin toss will be at 8:40 AM IST. Teams have agreed to play 50 overs per side.”

The rain, which began around 10 AM and continued until 5:30 PM local time, made it impossible for any play to take place, as the ground remained covered throughout the day.

The Indian team visited the venue briefly but left shortly afterward due to the wet conditions.

A short break in the rain late in the afternoon allowed ground staff to remove the covers, and umpires held briefings with team support staff.

However, as heavy rain resumed at 7 PM, it officially ended any hope of play for the day.

Sunday’s match now offers India a final opportunity to adjust to the conditions ahead of the much-anticipated pink-ball Test against Australia in Adelaide on 6 December.

The return of Rohit Sharma for India is a significant boost, while Australia will be without pacer Josh Hazlewood, who played a key role in India’s infamous 36 all-out in Adelaide in 2020.

Also Read: PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi Asserts Clear Stance On Champions Trophy Hosting