IPL 2023 Final, CSK Vs GT: Four Scenarios If Rain Interrupts Today's Game

This is the first time in IPL history that a final has been moved to a reserve day. If rain interrupts any delay beyond 9.40 pm will lead to a reduction in overs.

Groundsmen holding umbrellas near the covered pitch as it rains ahead of the IPL 2023 final cricket match between Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians at the Narendra Modi Stadium, in Ahmedabad, Sunday, May 28, 2023. ( Image Source :PTI )

The highly-anticipated final of the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL) between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Gujarat Titans (GT) faced a setback as persistent heavy rain forced the match to be rescheduled to the reserve day. This is the first time in IPL history that a final has been moved to a reserve day.

The unfortunate turn of events occurred on Sunday evening at the Narendra Modi Stadium. As both teams were gearing up for the toss, dark clouds gathered rapidly, signalling an impending downpour. At around 6:30 pm, heavy rain accompanied by thunder and lightning poured down, prompting fans to seek shelter from the sudden deluge. Although there was a temporary respite at 8:55 pm, allowing the ground staff to utilize the super soppers and the players to warm up, the rain returned with even greater intensity. The covers were brought back on, and water began to accumulate around the playing area. The cut-off time for the match to begin was 9:35 pm, but with the relentless rain persisting, the start of the game seemed unlikely on May 28 and the on-field umpire called it off.

After the IPL 2023 Final was pushed to reserve day, in the event of rain on Monday, the start of the IPL 2023 Final will not result in any reduction in overs unless play begins after 9:40 pm. Any delay beyond 9.40 pm will lead to a reduction in overs.

The rescheduled conditions for the game are as follows:

1. A 19-over game will start at 9:45 pm.
2. A 17-over game will start at 10 pm.
3. A 15-over game will start at 10:30 pm.
4. The cutoff time for conducting a five-over-a-side match is 12:06 am. (May 30)

If conducting a five-over-a-side match is not possible, a Super Over will take place. The outfield and pitch must be prepared by 1:20 am for this to occur.

If a Super Over does not happen, Gujarat will be crowned champions as they finished ahead of the Chennai Super Kings on the points table. Gujarat, led by Hardik Pandya, accumulated 20 points and secured the top position. Chennai managed 17 points during the league stages and finished second on the table.

In the event of rain interruptions during the contest, the following scenarios apply:

• If rain arrives during the first inning and lasts for a significant duration, the number of overs will be reduced to allow both sides to bat.
• If the first inning is completed without interruptions but rain completely washes out the second inning, Gujarat will be declared the winner.
• If the first inning is played and rain interrupts after five overs of the second inning, the Duckworth-Lewis rule will be implemented.
• If the match is decided by the Duckworth-Lewis rules but it is still not possible to continue playing, Gujarat will win the title.