The much-awaited India vs Pakistan match at the T20 World Cup 2026 could be delayed due to heavy rain forecast in Colombo.
Weather updates for the Khettarama area, where the R. Premadasa Stadium is located, indicate the heaviest rainfall is expected between 6 pm and 7 pm, just before the scheduled 7 pm start. Weather models suggest a 70% chance of rain, with steady showers likely in the hours before the match.
One forecast predicts about 5 mm of rain in the hour before the first ball, followed by light drizzle during the match. If conditions do not improve, the game could be shortened or washed out.
What Happens If the Match Is Washed Out?
Both India and Pakistan currently have four points from two matches each. If Sunday’s game is abandoned due to rain, both teams will share one point. That result would confirm their qualification for the Super Eight stage of the tournament.
There is a provision for 60 minutes of extra time to complete the match. Still, a prolonged downpour could affect the schedule.
Can the Ground Handle the Rain?
The R. Premadasa Stadium is known for handling tropical weather. Unlike many stadiums that only cover the pitch, this venue can protect the entire playing area with full ground covers. This prevents the outfield from getting waterlogged.
The stadium also has a modern drainage system. Ground staff manually move water across covers toward perimeter drains, which often works faster than mechanical drying machines. Under normal conditions, the ground can be ready for play 45 to 60 minutes after heavy rain stops.
The India-Pakistan rivalry in T20 World Cups has largely gone India’s way. Out of eight previous meetings, India has won seven.
The first encounter in the 2007 World T20 group stage ended in a dramatic bowl-out win for India in Durban. Later that year, India defeated Pakistan in the final at Johannesburg to lift the trophy.
Pakistan’s only win came in 2021 in Dubai, where they secured a 10-wicket victory. However, India bounced back with memorable wins in 2022 in Melbourne and again in 2024 in New York.
Now, as the teams prepare to meet again in Colombo, fans around the world are hoping the weather does not steal the spotlight from one of cricket’s biggest rivalries.
All eyes remain on the skies above Colombo.
