WTC final: First Day washed out without toss between India vs Newzealand

Rain, England and ICC have an everlasting connection, remember ICC cricket world cup 2019.

As per the forecast, the rain has played a spoilsport in the much-touted high octane battle of red-ball cricket -WTC. As per the latest updates, the first Day of the play has been washed out and players will be hoping for sun to shine on saturday. 

The opening day of the inaugural World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand was rained out at the Hampshire Bowl, here on Friday.

It had started raining in Southampton on Thursday afternoon and the relentless drizzle continued till Friday afternoon. Due to incessant rain, the square remained under cover throughout the day and even coin toss could not take place.

The match was scheduled to start at 1500 hrs (IST) but the weather ensured that the pitch at the Ageas Bowl remain covered.Umpires Michael Gough and Richard Illingworth, after multiple inspections, called off the game at 1930 hrs IST (3 pm local time).

"Due to persistent rain, play has been abandoned on day one of the #WTC21 Final in Southampton," the ICC said on Twitter.

Notably, the ICC has kept a reserve day to make up for time lost during the regular days of the match because of inclement weather.

Rain has been forecast in Southampton for most part of the inaugural Test Championship.Earlier Met department of Southampton predicted that there are 80-90% of chances for the play to get abandoned as drizzling is expected throughout the day at ageas bowl. India has announced its playing XI a day before Friday while playing XI of Newzealand has not been disclosed yet. The cric buffs from across the world and especially Indian and kiwis fans living in Southampton are charged up for the mothers of all battle. (WD/UNI)

Due to persistent rain, play has been abandoned on day one of the #WTC21 Final in Southampton #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/Vzi8hdUBz8

— ICC (@ICC) June 18, 2021

UPDATE - Unfortunately, play on Day 1 has been called off due to rains. 10.30 AM local time start tomorrow.#WTC21

— BCCI (@BCCI) June 18, 2021