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WTC final: Rain washes out opening day in Southampton

Last updated on: June 18, 2021 19:57 IST

WTC

IMAGE: An Indian fan during Day 1 of the ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand which was called off due to rain, in Southampton, on Friday. Photograph: Alex Davidson/Getty Images

The opening day of the ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand was called off due to persistent rain, in Southampton, on Friday.

 

As per the ICC playing conditions guidelines for the WTC final, if required the reserve sixth day can now come into effect with six hours of play lost on Day 1 itself.

"UPDATE - Unfortunately, play on Day 1 has been called off due to rains. 10.30 AM local time start tomorrow," tweeted BCCI.

IMAGE: The super-sopper in operation during the opening day. Photograph: Alex Davidson/Getty Images

It has been raining non-stop in Southampton since Thursday afternoon. The toss could not take place on Friday because of the heavy drizzle.

Umpires Michael Gough and Richard Illingworth had an inspection at 7.30pm IST (3pm local time) before deciding to call off the day's play.

IMAGE: New Zealand's pace trio of Tim Southee, Trent Boult and Neil Wagner. Photograph: Alex Davidson/Getty Images

India have already named their playing XI for the WTC final, including both spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson was more guarded about his final selection.

"We haven't finalised our team yet. But we will have a closer look at the surface and have a few more conversations before we do that. We just want to leave the finalising of the team until slightly later," Williamson said.

IMAGE: The Ageas Bowl in Southampton under covers because of rain. Photograph: Alex Davidson/Getty Images

In case of a no-result, the two teams will be declared joint winners.

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