(AP Photo)
The second semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2024 between India and England in Guyana has been delayed by persistent rain. Continuous light showers have kept both players and officials indoors, while fans anxiously await a break in the weather to start the match. However, if the rain persists and washes out the game, it would lead to an unexpected turn of events.
Unlike the first semi-final between South Africa and Afghanistan in Trinidad, the ICC has not scheduled a reserve day for this match. Instead, there is an additional window of 250 minutes available for the Guyana fixture. This disparity in playing conditions, match timings, and overall scheduling has sparked criticism in the English media.
The outcome of the India vs. England semi-final remains uncertain. As we await the determination of the second finalist, several questions loom large.
Why is there no reserve day for the second semi-final?
Given that the tournament final is scheduled for Saturday, there wasn’t enough room in the schedule to allocate a reserve day for the second knockout match in Guyana. This decision ensures teams won’t face the challenge of playing, traveling, and then playing again without sufficient rest.
What is the cut-off time?
For the India vs. England day game starting at 10:30 am local time, an additional 250 minutes have been set aside. The cut-off time for a full 20-overs match has been extended to 2:40 PM local time (12:10 am IST). Beyond this time, play can still commence with no reduction in overs.
In contrast to the group stage matches, where a 5-overs per side game was a possibility, a 10-overs per side match is required to achieve a result in the knockout stage. The cut-off time for such a match is 4:14 PM local time (1:44 am IST on Friday).
What happens if the second semi-final is rained out?
If rain prevents the match from taking place, India will advance to the final where they will face South Africa on Saturday. India topped the Super 8 points table undefeated, while England suffered a defeat to South Africa in the Super 8 stage.
When and where is the final of the T20 World Cup 2024? Is there a reserve day?
The final of the T20 World Cup 2024 will be held in Barbados. The ICC has scheduled a reserve day for the final. In the event that play is not possible on both the original and reserve days, the trophy will be shared between South Africa and the winner of the second semi-final.
