India vs Sri Lanka : Rain could play spoilsport in second Ind-SL game

A rather gloomy evening in Colombo greeted the Sri Lanka and India cricket teams as they made their way to the ground for the 4th T20I of the ongoing Nidahas Trophy. There has been constant drizzle since this morning and the groundsmen have not taken any chances as they have covered the entire ground. 

The covers did come off at about 6:15 PM Local Time and India’s head coach Ravi Shastri and bowling coach Bharat Arun were having a close look at the pitch. The Indian team had come out for their pre-match warm up as well. However, just when the officials were inspecting the pitch, the drizzle returned and the groundsmen once again covered the square. At 6:51 PM Local Time (Sri Lanka), BCCI tweeted that the drizzle has become heavier. However, former Sri Lankan cricketer Russell Arnold believes that the ongoing drizzle should be a passing shower. 

Also, with the toss and start delayed, another spell of rain is likely to interrupt the game, if it starts, at around 8.30 PM local time. Thus, if the game gets underway, the first innings might get interrupted. With all the rain around, there is also a possibility of a shortened game. However, the cutoff time for the game has been set at 9:35 local time and if the first ball is not bowled by then, the game will be called off.

After Bangladesh pulled off a heist and chased down 214 (which was the 4th highest run-chase in T20I history), all teams were tied at 2 points each after the same number of matches (2 games apiece).  With all teams tied at same points (2), this game (4th T20I) is a crucial encounter as the team which emerges victorious would inch closer to a spot in the final.