Correspondent, 16 October: The fifth and decisive T20 match between India and the West Indies, scheduled for October 17 in Bengaluru, is facing a significant rain threat that could potentially lead to the game's cancellation. Both teams are eager to claim the series, which is currently tied 2-2 following a 24-run victory by the West Indies in the fourth match held in Hyderabad.
According to a weather report from AccuWeather, a thunderstorm warning has been issued for Bengaluru on the day of the match. The probability of rain stands at 66 percent at 5 PM and is expected to rise to 68 percent by the time of the toss. The risk of showers will only escalate after the match begins, with the chance of rain peaking at 70 percent between 8 PM and 9 PM. This persistent weather warning raises the possibility of a delayed toss, a reduction in the number of overs, or a complete abandonment of the match.
Providing some relief to cricket fans, Bengaluru's M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is equipped with a 'Sub-Air Drainage System,' which is considered among the best in the world. Thanks to this advanced facility, the ground can be made ready for play within just 15 to 20 minutes after the rain stops.
This encounter will mark the first time India and the West Indies face off in a T20 match at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The Indian team has played a total of eight T20 matches at this venue, recording four wins, three losses, and one match ending without a result. In contrast, the West Indies have played only one T20 match at this stadium, emerging victorious in that solitary appearance.
Looking back at the current series, India won the opening match by eight wickets at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. The West Indies then leveled the series by chasing down a massive target of 250 runs in the second game in Ranchi. India reclaimed the lead with a 14-run victory in the third clash at Indore's Holkar Stadium. However, the West Indies bounced back to defeat India by 24 runs in the fourth match in Hyderabad, bringing the series to its current 2-2 deadlock.
