NEW DELHI: Despite the weather forecast predicting no rain for Chennai on Sunday, the Indian Premier League 2024 final between Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad faces a minor rain threat due to
Cyclone Remal
's activity in the north of the Bay of Bengal.
Sunday is expected to remain cloudy in Chennai with evening humidity exceeding 60% but 0% chance of rain as per AccuWeather's forecast.
It will be humid with temperatures in the early 30 degrees at Chepauk.
KKR's Training Disrupted by Rain
On Saturday, KKR's final training session ahead of the much-anticipated final was disrupted by an unexpected downpour. The KKR players, who had just begun their customary pre-practice football game, were forced to seek shelter as the skies opened up. The SRH team, meanwhile, enjoyed a rest day.
Groundsmen Ensure Pitch Protection
The groundsmen at
Chepauk Stadium
swiftly covered the fourth pitch designated for the final, ensuring its protection despite the intermittent rain. The second qualifier, played on a black soil pitch, had favored the spinners due to the ball gripping and not coming onto the bat easily. In contrast, the final will be played on a red soil pitch, expected to offer better batting conditions.
Rain interrupted KKR's practice session on Saturday. (TOI Photo)
IPL Final's Contingency Plans for Rain
- In the event of a washout on Sunday, the IPL has a reserve day scheduled for Monday, with favorable weather predicted.
- Should rain disrupt the match, the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method will be used to adjust the game.
- If persistent rain leads to a complete washout on both days, the IPL 2024 winner will be determined based on the points table standings. Under this scenario, the Kolkata Knight Riders, currently at the top of the table, would be declared the champions.
As both teams prepare for the final, all eyes are on the weather, hoping for clear skies to ensure an uninterrupted conclusion to the IPL 2024 season.
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