Rain Delays IPL 2025 Qualifier 2 Match in Ahmedabad

AHMEDABAD, India — Rain disrupted the start of the IPL 2025 Qualifier 2 match between the Mumbai Indians and the Punjab Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday evening.

The match was scheduled to begin at 7:30 PM IST, but rain began to fall just after the toss, and the game was delayed by nearly two hours. The ground staff quickly covered the field as the drizzle intensified.

Play resumed at 9:45 PM IST, with no overs lost, as confirmed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). However, anxiety remained among fans and players alike, as the forecast continued to suggest potential rain for the rest of the evening.

Despite the delays, there is significant concern among supporters of the Mumbai Indians, as there is no reserve day for this match. If a complete washout occurs, the team that finished higher in the points table moves on to the final.

The Punjab Kings, who finished first in the league stage, would advance while the Mumbai Indians, who placed fourth, would be eliminated. The IPL’s Playing Conditions clarify that the team higher in the standings is deemed the winner if rain prevents a Super Over.

“If conditions do not permit a Super Over, or subsequent Super Overs, then the team which finished higher in the league will be deemed the winner of the relevant play-off match,” said an IPL official.

The match holds significant importance for both teams. Punjab Kings, led by captain Shreyas Iyer, aim to secure a final berth for the first time since 2014, while the Mumbai Indians seek their sixth title.

Following the toss, which Punjab Kings won, Iyer elected to bowl first. This decision reflects the team’s confidence and strategic approach given the conditions.

As fans await the outcome, many took to social media to express their frustration regarding the venue shift to Ahmedabad, where rain has disrupted play, while conditions in the originally planned location, Kolkata, remain clear.

The IPL’s decision to relocate matches has sparked debate among fans, particularly as they attempt to understand the management of the playoff schedule amidst adverse weather conditions.

Ultimately, should the rain linger and halt play completely, the stage will be set for Punjab Kings to progress to the final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.