Rain threat looms over final ODI as NZ, India get ready for series decider

India and New Zealand might be all set for the third and final T20 International on Tuesday but in the end, rain gods might decide the result of the match.

It has rained for the last three days in the capital of Kerala and Sunday received heavy showers, which kept the central part of the Greenfield International Stadium’s ground under the covers.

“These are not seasonal rains but yes, it has been regular for the last three days. Importantly, rain has been forecast for the next three days too which could put the match in jeopardy,” a Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) official told Hindustan Times.

Most of Sunday remained under cloud cover with heavy showers in the afternoon. But the KCA officials are prepared.

“We are fully prepared. The Greenfield International Stadium has a very good drainage system. It rained last evening too but within 20 minutes to half an hour, the ground was ready. So we had a good rehearsal yesterday. We have plans to clear rainwater,” KCA secretary Jayesh George told Hindustan Times.

Another official, while speaking to this correspondent, was of similar opinion. “Even if it rains the entire day, the drainage here is so good that we can have the ground clear of rainwater in no time,” said the official on condition of anonymity.

India’s previous T20 series, against Australia, had also suffered due to rain.

Like this series, India and Australia headed into the decider tied at 1-1 only with the Hyderabad game to be abandoned without a ball being bowled due to a wet outfield.

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: