Rain disrupts India’s Champions Trophy opener against Bangladesh

Photo : AFP

Dubai: A light drizzle in the morning in Dubai has provided a new twist to India's first Champions Trophy match against Bangladesh. While the rain has relieved the rising temperature, it has also added an element of uncertainty to the pitch conditions. The match will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday, and the weather might become a decisive factor.

Toss May Prove to Be Decisive

Dubai has historically been a pitch that suits teams that pursue, and the current weather conditions may make the toss even more decisive. The rain's moisture may assist fast bowlers in the initial stages, and the first few overs may prove difficult for batters.

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Recent data from the DP World ILT20 tournament, held until February 9, reveal this trend. There were 25 wins for teams batting second in that tournament, and two of those occurred during day games. This suggests that teams who win the toss can opt to bowl first and benefit from the pitch conditions.

Weather Conditions

The UAE's National Centre of Meteorology forecasted that Thursday will be "partly cloudy, with a possibility of light rain along the coast." The temperatures will be rising throughout the day, and humidity will rise at night. Though the rain will not last long, it may marginally influence the pitch behavior, allowing the bowlers a slight advantage in the initial few overs.

Bangladesh's Strong Pace Attack

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto believes that his pace bowlers are well placed to make the most of these conditions.

"We always had a problem with our seam attack in the past, but over the last two years we have created some good fast bowlers," Shanto said to the media.

Teen pace sensation Nahid Rana, who bowls at more than 140 kmph on a regular basis, may prove to be Bangladesh's ace player. He can cause problems for the Indian batsmen, particularly on overcast days.

India Ready for Any Challenge

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma, however, is not bothered by the volatile weather. According to him, his side has the talent and experience to face any challenge.

I do not enter a match with a pre-thought-out plan. We will do whatever is best for us on the day. Dew is always uncertain, but we possess the proper bowling attack to deal with overcast weather," Rohit declared.

The combination of an exciting match, a strong battle between bat and ball, and changing weather conditions sets the stage for a thrilling encounter. Cricket fans can look forward to an intense showdown at Dubai’s iconic Ring of Fire stadium.