In what comes as a big news from Asia Cup 2023, it is now being reported that the final of the continental tournament scheduled on September 17 at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo is likely to be shifted to the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy. The reports come amid continuous rain in the Sri Lankan capital which threatens another India vs Pakistan washout despite a last-minute reserve day addition by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC).
There is still no official confirmation on the change of venue but a report by News24 journalist followed by a report from Times Now has suggested that a such move is being mulled by the organisers. The final decision on the change of the venue is likely to be taken on September 11 (Monday).
While the Group stage face off between the two arch-rivals India and Pakistan had ended without a result, the fixture in Colombo also seems to be headed the same way with only 24.1 overs possible on the scheduled day and the start of the match already delayed on reserve day.
With a likelihood of an India vs Pakistan final, the two giants could square off for the third time on September 17 (Sunday) in this tournament and with so much excitement and anticipation for this clash, there is no way the organisers would want another spoilsport by the rain, keeping in mind the venue could be changed. Having said that, rain has also affected matches in Kandy but the forecast seems promising there for September 17
IND vs PAK Weather Report In Colombo On Reserve Day
As far as the weather report of the reserve day of the IND vs PAK Super Four clash is concerned, it is not positive news at all as chances of rain will be around 70-75% at 5 pm and drop marginally to 49% by 6 pm. This would suggest that India would have a point their first match, in case the rain washes out this game. On the other hand, Pakistan will have 3 points from 2 matches as they have already secured a win over Bangladesh.
With IND vs PAK Super Four match seeping into the reserve day, the Men in Blue practically have a match on each of September 10, 11 and September 12 as Rohit Sharma & Co. are set to take on Sri Lanka at the same venue on September 12 (Tuesday).