Rain washes out play at Barsapara as KKR secure top slot

Guwahati, May 19 , 2024 : In a disappointing turn of events, the much-anticipated Match 70 of the TATA Indian Premier League 2024 between Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders was abandoned here on Sunday, with not a single ball bowled, due to persistent rain. The Barsapara Cricket Stadium, the scheduled venue for the encounter, witnessed continuous downpour, which not only delayed the toss but also prevented any play from taking place. Despite a brief respite from the rain later in the day, allowing for the toss to be conducted, the match was ultimately reduced to a mere 7 overs per side as KKR won the toss and opted to field. However, the weather gods had other plans as the rain returned shortly after, forcing the match officials to abandon the game altogether. As a result of the abandonment, both teams were awarded one point each, causing no change to their standing in the tournament. KKR maintained their position at the summit of the table with 20 points, while RR settled with 17 points. This outcome was crucial for the latter, as Sunrisers Hyderabad’s victory over Punjab Kings earlier in the day propelled them to 17 points as well, with a superior Net Run Rate of 0.414 compared to RR’s 0.273, thereby securing their place in the top two. Looking ahead, KKR are set to clash with Sunrisers Hyderabad in Qualifier 1, scheduled to be held in Ahmedabad on May 21. Meanwhile, Royal Challengers Bengaluru will lock horns with RR in the Eliminator, slated for May 22. Despite the disappointment of today’s washout, fans eagerly await the thrilling encounters that the playoffs promise to deliver, as the top teams vie for ultimate glory in the TATA IPL 2024.