The ground remained under covers for the majority of the afternoon, even as the stadium scoreboard flashed a hopeful message: “Rain Rain Go Away.” A short break around 2:45 pm offered a glimpse of sunlight, briefly raising hopes for the toss and an abbreviated match.
However, as the scheduled toss time approached, the clouds thickened again, and the drizzle returned, forcing the covers to be replaced. By 3 pm, the light rain had escalated into a heavy downpour, rendering the pitch unplayable and leaving the stadium empty. Officials monitored the weather throughout, but conditions made any start impossible.
Australia were entering the game in strong form, having recorded a dominant 89-run victory over New Zealand in their opening fixture. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, were looking to bounce back after a 59-run defeat to India in their tournament opener at Guwahati, which was decided via the DLS method.
With the Women’s World Cup in full swing, teams will need to adapt quickly to the unpredictable conditions while Australia and Sri Lanka wait for the start of the match to make an impact in the competition.
