T20 Cricket World Cup: t20 cricket world cup New Zealand v Pakistan delayed by rain in Colombo
Rain forced a halt to the New Zealand v Pakistan Super Eights fixture in Colombo, delaying the t20 cricket world cup match as heavy showers left the outfield covered. Captains Mitch Santner and Salman Ali Agha were briefly shown on camera before play was called off.
T20 Cricket World Cup delay
TV cameras suddenly cut to captains Mitch Santner and Salman Ali Agha shaking hands in the tunnel and giving a thumbs up to the few viewers that have clung on. The stadium big screen displayed the message "start of play delayed because of rain. " No play was possible while significant puddles covered the outfield covers and big droplets were visible on their surface.
Captains, handshake and thumbs-up
After the brief tunnel meeting, those present were left waiting for an on-field decision. Organisers said they were waiting for a call from the umpires; the coverage remained fully on and the report noted: "We've still fully covered in Colombo, so if we do get any play it certainly won't be for a while. " A later note added: "No news from Colombo at present - bar the fact it still appears to be raining. "
Covers, puddles and outfield
Significant puddles had formed on the covers on the outfield, and the rain was described as still coming down pretty heavily in Colombo. The stadium big screen at one point asked: "Rain, rain, go away. " While play was suspended, spectators and viewers were encouraged to try a promotional game that invites fans to pick an international team and guess which metric a side's players beat another player around the world.
England, Sri Lanka and fixtures
Coverage noted that broadcasters and staff would be back tomorrow for England's opening Super Eight fixture against Sri Lanka at 09: 30 GMT in Pallekele. The preview of England's first Super Eight fixture against Sri Lanka was credited to Matthew Henry's preview. England captain Harry Brook spoke to the press before his side's clash with Sri Lanka tomorrow and said it would be "a shame" if Pakistan players were excluded from playing in The Hundred this year.
Sponsorship, auction and signings
It was noted that Pakistan players are not being considered by the four Indian-owned sides for the auction, which will take place on 11 and 12 March. Yorkshire batter Brook has already been signed by Indian-owned Sunrisers Leeds, previously known as Northern Superchargers, and will be the tournament's highest-paid player after receiving a fee of £465, 000.
Santner's comments at the toss
New Zealand captain Mitch Santner, speaking at the toss, said: "We came here from Chennai. It could be a little bit different here. But we know what the conditions will be. We know what challenge Pakistan will bring. It should be entertaining. They've got some very good spinners. We know that. " The live update also reminded readers that these two sides have played a fair bit in the last two years, with the Black Caps holding the edge, ever so slightly.
Officials and teams remained on standby in Colombo as weather conditions dictated the schedule. Updates were promised as and when further information became available.
