It’s been a frustrating wait for the players, fans and spectators as the India-New Zealand clash has been delayed due to rain. Multiple inspections have taken place already, with the next one scheduled for 6 pm.
It has been raining intermittently with the groundsmen not getting enough time in between to get the ground ready. The skies are dark and with each passing minute, it appears that the likelihood of having a match is slim.
Meanwhile, players will be taking lunch at 13.00 local time, which is 30 minutes prior to the latest scheduled inspection.
As per the live pictures, the two umpires can be seen carrying out the latest inspection. Although the rain has stopped, the outfield has taken a pounding and plenty of wet patches are visible.
While the pitch seems well protected, the outfield remains a concern. Super soppers are working in full flow to get the ground ready for the match.
In previous World Cups, matches between the two countries have proved to be quite intense, with New Zealand holding a 4-3 advantage over India. In their last World Cup meeting in 2003, India had beaten New Zealand by 7 wickets after skittling out the opposition for 146 in 45.1 overs.
India played its last game on Sunday against Australia and won convincingly by 36 runs. Batting first, the team had racked up a huge total of 352 runs on the board, helped by a brilliant century from Shikhar Dhawan, who was declared man of the match.
In their first game, India had beaten South Africa by 6 wickets.
New Zealand are sitting on top of the table with 6 points from three wins, while India is currently in 4th position with 4 points from two matches.