The highly anticipated showdown of IPL 2024 between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) faces jeopardy as the M Chinnaswamy Stadium braces for potential washouts this Saturday. Weather forecasts for Bengaluru predict “showers and a thunderstorm” over the next five days, from Friday, May 17 to Tuesday, May 21.

If rain disrupts play, both teams will earn a point each, a scenario that would spell disaster for RCB, catapulting them out of the IPL 2024 tournament while securing CSK’s berth in the playoffs.

Threat of rain looms over RCB vs CSK showdown

Accuweather forecasts reveal a 99% cloud cover around the stadium during the afternoon, with intermittent showers and thunderstorms expected. In the evening, the likelihood of rain drops to 74%, with temperatures ranging from 30-34 degrees Celsius. Nighttime forecasts indicate 100% cloud cover, a 62% chance of rain, and the possibility of thunderstorms, with temperatures dipping to 21-22 degrees Celsius.

Should the rain relent, persistent showers may still jeopardize the likelihood of a full game. Per IPL playing conditions, the shortest viable match spans five overs and must commence no later than 10:56 PM.

IPL 2024 fate hangs in balance for contending teams

In the broader context of the IPL 2024 playoffs, Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals have secured their spots, leaving five teams vying for the remaining two positions. CSK, SunRisers Hyderabad, Delhi Capitals, RCB, and Lucknow Super Giants comprise the contenders. Delhi Capitals have concluded their league matches, accumulating 14 points from as many games, while the other contenders, save for SRH, have one match remaining. Net run rates are likely to play a decisive role in determining the final playoff spot.

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The RCB vs CSK clash looms large as a pivotal encounter, with fans and experts alike dubbing it a virtual knockout match.