IPL 2023 Final: Rain Gods Play Spoilsport – Is It Time to Consider a Reserve Day for Cricket’s Biggest Stage?

IPL 2023 Final Delayed Due to Rain

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad has been delayed indefinitely due to rain. This has left cricket fans and players on tenterhooks as they wait for an official announcement on the starting time. With both Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Gujarat Titans (GT) eager to get going, it remains to be seen if the match will start.

No Reserve Day for the IPL 2023 Final

If the weather doesn’t improve and the match does not start at all, then the question arises as to what will happen to the IPL 2023 final, which has millions of fans looking forward to it. Unfortunately, there is no reserve day for the IPL 2023 final. However, if there is no play possible on May 28, the game will be rescheduled for the reserve day, which is May 29. This would be a huge relief for both teams and their supporters.

Late Start is Possible without Losing Overs

If the weather situation improves, then the match can start as late as 9.35 pm IST without any reduction in overs. However, if only a five-over shootout is possible, the game can start as late as 11.56 pm. The organizers have made provisions for every possible scenario, keeping the interests of the teams and fans in mind.

What Happens if No Play is Possible in the Final?

In case no play is possible at all in the final, the team that finished the highest in the league table after the 70 matches of the regular season will be declared the winner of the relevant playoff match or final. This underscores the importance of teams giving their best in every match, as the results can influence the final standings.

The Philosophy of Sport and Weather

Cricket, like all sports, is an outdoor game and is subject to weather conditions. In many ways, cricket is one of the most closely watched sports in the world, and much depends on the weather conditions. Therefore, that element of unpredictability is central to the allure of the game. As a result, cricket has embraced the philosophy of “the show must go on,” and organizers have taken many measures over the years to ensure that matches continue despite unfavorable weather conditions.

Editorial and Advice

While it is unfortunate that there is no reserve day for the IPL 2023 final, it is essential to remember that the organizers have taken every possible step to ensure that fans and players alike are not left disappointed. The philosophy of sport is such that it must be enjoyed not just for the outcome but also for the journey that leads to that outcome. Fans should try and appreciate the efforts taken by the organizers to ensure that the final is played, and the teams should be commended for their perseverance and hard work throughout what has been an exciting season of cricket.