In the 70th IPL 2024 encounter, the Rajasthan Royals (RR) set to face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. However, as the cricketing world eagerly anticipates this crucial clash, rain has damaged the proceedings, delaying the all-important toss and potentially jeopardizing the match.

Latest Weather Update

21:31 Local Time, 16:01 GMT: Still raining, covers firmly in place. The chances of a game getting bleaker with every passing minute. Just a reminder, if this game ends up being a washout, SRH will play the qualifier, Rajasthan will have to play the eliminator.

21:11 Local Time, 15:41 GMT: The cut-off time for a five-over game is 10:56 PM. Toss needs to happen atleast 15 minutes before that. Meanwhile, there are a few puddles forming on the edge of the square covers. Not looking very good in Barsapara.

9:05pm: Only the square is covered and there is water is trickling out onto the grass just inside the ring, square of the wicket.

20:14 Local Time, 14:44 GMT: Rain has reduced to a drizzle. Two supersoppers at work on one side of the ground. There is still a steady drizzle. Given the toss hasn’t happened and it’ll be an hour into the scheduled start of play in 20 minutes, it’s almost inevitable that this won’t be a full game.

As of the latest update at 8 PM, Guwahati is still experiencing a slight drizzle, with the entire ground nearly covered. The persistent rain has raised concerns about whether the match will proceed. Ground staff are on standby, but the game might be canceled if the weather doesn’t improve soon.

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Significance for Rajasthan Royals

For the Rajasthan Royals, this match is more than just another game; it’s a chance to secure a top-two finish. Despite a solid start to the tournament, recent defeats have put pressure on the Royals. A win here is crucial to regain momentum and boost their standings.

Implications for Kolkata Knight Riders

Kolkata Knight Riders are also eyeing a solid finish to the group stage. With playoff spots on the line, every point counts. A win could significantly improve their position, while a washout might leave their fate in the hands of other results.

Impact of a Washed-Out Match

If the match is abandoned due to rain, both teams will share points. For RR, this would mean finishing the group stage with 17 points, equaling Sunrisers Hyderabad, but potentially missing out on the top two due to Net Run Rate.

In the event of a washout, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) would face RR in the eliminator, while SRH would take on KKR in Qualifier 1. This would set up a thrilling playoff stage with high stakes for all teams involved.

Net Run Rate and Playoff Scenarios

Net Run Rate (NRR) is a critical metric in IPL standings. It’s calculated by the difference between a team’s scoring rate and the rate at which it concedes runs. A higher NRR can be the deciding factor in tight points table situations.

A washout would mean RR misses the chance to improve its NRR, potentially impacting its playoff seeding. KKR would also miss an opportunity to climb the table, making its path to the playoffs more challenging.