Daijiworld Media Network - Navi Mumbai

Navi Mumbai, Oct 26: The start of Match 28 between India and Bangladesh in the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup was delayed on Sunday due to a brief spell of rain at the Dr. DY Patil Stadium, forcing ground staff to rush in with covers just minutes before the toss.

Both teams had begun their warm-ups under overcast skies when a light drizzle began around 15 minutes before the scheduled toss. With nearly 75 per cent of the ground covered, players retreated to the dugouts as the drizzle intensified. Although the rain lasted for only about ten minutes, it was enough to delay the toss and the start of play.

The ground staff later began removing the covers, but with dark clouds still looming, they remained alert for further interruptions. The stadium floodlights were switched on early, but uncertainty persisted over whether a full game would be possible. Moments later, rain returned, forcing the covers back on over the central pitch.

Despite the weather setbacks, there was a moment of celebration for the Indian camp as wicketkeeper-batter Uma Chetry received her maiden ODI cap, replacing Richa Ghosh, who injured her finger while fielding against New Zealand on October 23 at the same venue. Chetry, who has already represented India in T20Is, was presented with her cap by vice-captain Smriti Mandhana in a brief on-field ceremony before rain once again halted proceedings.

With the semifinal lineup already confirmed, the match holds little impact on the tournament standings. However, India will be looking to fine-tune their combinations ahead of their semifinal clash against Australia scheduled for October 30, also at the DY Patil Stadium. Bangladesh, meanwhile, will aim for a morale-boosting win against one of the top-four teams.

Weather forecasts have added another layer of concern, as rain is also predicted for October 30, raising the possibility that the much-anticipated semifinal between India and Australia could face similar disruptions.