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Cricket is a game that can be both exhilarating and unpredictable, and the role of the weather can often add an extra layer of complexity to the proceedings. Something similar happened during a classic encounter between arch-rivals India and Pakistan in the third Super 4 fixture of the Asia Cup 2023 when persistent rain showers forced the remaining match to be pushed to the reserve day.
India’s dominant start and rain disruption
Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill provided a brilliant start to India during the clash and put up a formidable opening partnership, and India appeared poised for a substantial total. Rohit scored an impressive 56 runs from 49 balls, while Gill played a stellar knock of 58 runs off 52 deliveries. However, the cricketing gods had other plans, as rain interrupted play after 24.1 overs and the match was delayed till the reserve day on (September 11).
As the much-anticipated clash between India and Pakistan in the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup 2023 was pushed to the reserve day due to rain, it’s an opportune moment to revisit India’s history on reserve days.
Also READ: Ravi Shastri lauds Rohit Sharma as he outshines Sachin Tendulkar’s Asia Cup milestone
Before we delve into the details, it is worth mentioning that India’s encounters on reserve days have been a mixed bag of emotions so far.
India’s reserve day record
An ODI vs England 1996: India lost
India found themselves on the wrong side of the result in the third ODI of their England tour in 1996. Despite a valiant effort, they couldn’t secure a victory on the reserve day.
1999 ICC Cricket World Cup Group Stage vs England: India won
In a contrasting turn of events, India emerged victorious in their 1999 ICC Cricket World Cup group stage fixture against England. They showcased their resilience and came out on top. This is the only occasion when India pulled off a win on reserve day.
2002 Champions Trophy Final vs Sri Lanka: No result
The 2002 Champions Trophy final, a major clash in the cricketing calendar, was pushed to the reserve day but, unfortunately, couldn’t be completed due to weather interruptions. However, the championship was shared between India and Sri Lanka.
2019 World Cup Semi-Final vs New Zealand: India lost
The 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup semi-final against New Zealand is etched in the memories of cricket fans. India fell short, suffering a heart-wrenching defeat on the reserve day.
2021 World Test Championship Final vs New Zealand: India lost
India’s battle against New Zealand in the 2021 World Test Championship final also ended in disappointment. Despite their resilience, they couldn’t clinch victory on the reserve day.
