New Delhi: Hosts England face West Indies on Friday at the Rose Bowl, Southampton. Given the number of matches washed out, bad weather has been a major concern in the tournament.
Bad Weather Plays Spoilsport
The weather prediction for today says that there’s the possibility of rain at 10 am (2.30 pm IST), which is when the toss is to be held. But while the toss may be delayed, weather forecasts say the rest of the game should be unaffected by the rain.
The rain has played a big role in the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 — much to the disappointment of players, fans and organisers. Pakistan vs Sri Lanka, South Africa vs West Indies, Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka and on Thursday, India vs New Zealand have all been washed out with teams sharing spoils. ICC is facing much criticism from all over for scheduling the much awaited cricketing extravaganza at a very wrong time or at a very wrong place.
Match Statistics
Coming to the match, England received positive news of Jos Buttler recovering from his injury. The fact that one of West Indies’ own will be playing for England would be an interesting watch. Barbados-born Jofra Archer was a late inclusion in England’s squad after qualifying on residency in March. The 24-year-old Archer is set to lead the England attack against the West Indies on Friday, a showdown that will be in the spotlight.
Meanwhile, the Carribean batsmen need to step up and take the responsibility, which was clear after their stunning defeat to Australia. West Indies began their campaign strongly by crushing Pakistan thanks to hostile pace bowling but saw their match against South Africa abandoned due to inclement weather.
England are fourth in the points table after India’s washout took them to third with five points. West Indies, meanwhile, are sixth with three points.
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Ms Kalinga