7 instances when rain changed the fate of matches in ICC tournaments
In the lead up to the World Cup 2019, a number of experts were of the view that hosts England and India were to start their campaign as the favorites.
Both teams have lived up to the expectations as they have posted big wins but with England recently losing to Sri Lanka, New Zealand now look hot favorites with an unbeaten campaign. Defending champions Australia have also impressed with their good show.
However, one factor which has outplayed not only these three teams but also the other teams in this World Cup is the rain. It is a well-known fact that the weather is unpredictable in England but to a number of matches getting abandoned has raised questions over the planning of the mega event.
A number of queries have also been raised questioning the facilities on the grounds as a major part of the turf has not been covered during rai, adding time delays to the rain-curtailed encounters. With rain playing spoilsport in this World Cup, here is a look at seven instances when rain changed the fate of ICC tournaments.
#7 1992 World Cup - Rain helps Pakistan win the World Cup
Pakistan faced England on a rainy day in the league phase of the 1992 World Cup. England's decision to field first reaped huge dividends as Pakistan was bowled out for 74. England was on 17/1 in six overs when players went for the mid-innings break.
Rain came peltering down for the next three hours resulting in the reduction of overs. The tournament had adopted a new rule called the 'Most Productive Overs' rule. According to it, if the innings of the chasing side is reduced to 'n' overs due to interruption, then the target is revised as one run more than the highest scoring 'n' overs of the team batting first.
With a minimum of 15 overs being mandatory for the rule to be applied, the new target was 64 off 15 overs. However, only two overs were possible as both teams got a point each.
Pakistan qualified for knockouts by virtue of this fortunate solitary point and they went to beat England in the finals to lift the cup.
Also read – Most world cup wins