Cricket fans may be in for disappointment as heavy rain threatens to wash out the Day 1 Test match between India and New Zealand, scheduled to take place from October 16 to 20 in Bengaluru. The weather forecast predicts rain for all five days of the match, casting serious doubt on whether the game will even take place. The match is critical for both teams, especially India, who are leading the ICC World Test Championship points table and eager to add more points. New Zealand, looking to bounce back from their recent defeat to Sri Lanka, will also be hoping for better weather conditions.

Grim weather forecast dampens India’s preparations

The forecast for Bengaluru suggests rain on all five days of the match, with chances of rain ranging from 25% to 67% across the scheduled match days. This grim weather outlook has already impacted Team India, as their practice session on Tuesday was cancelled due to bad weather. According to weather reports, there’s a 41% chance of rain on October 16, rising to 67% on October 18, making a full contest unlikely.

The Indian team, currently at the top of the World Test Championship points table, will be keen to secure a win, especially after their recent dominant performances. However, the weather might not allow them the opportunity. Even if play occurs, rain interruptions may affect the flow of the match, making it difficult to achieve a result over the course of five days.

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Match called off 

The match called off due to weather. India have previously managed to secure victories in shortened matches, as seen in their recent Test win against Bangladesh in Kanpur, where they won in just three days despite losing two days to bad weather. While the chances of a full contest seem slim, India’s potent bowling attack could still produce a result in a truncated match. However, with rain predicted for most of the match, even achieving a two-day contest may be difficult.

New Zealand, led by stand-in captain Tom Latham in the absence of Kane Williamson, will be aiming for a comeback after their recent struggles in Sri Lanka. However, the weather may deny them the chance to make their mark in this series opener.