Rain Threatens IPL 2023 Final: GT to Be Declared Champions if Monday Match Washed Out

Nature had the final say as the highly anticipated 16th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) came to an unexpected halt on Sunday. The much-anticipated final between the Gujarat Titans (GT) and the Chennai Super Kings ( CSK ) was postponed for the first time in IPL history due to incessant rains that rendered the ground unfit for cricket.

As dark clouds loomed over the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad , a scroll appeared on the giant screens, delivering the disappointing news to the eager spectators. "IPL final has been moved to the reserve day @7.30 pm, 29th May," it read, dashing the hopes of cricket enthusiasts who had gathered to witness the thrilling clash.

Organizers also reassured fans who held physical tickets for the original match day, stating that their tickets would remain valid for the rescheduled match on Monday. The crowd was urged to keep their tickets safe and intact.

The decision to postpone the match was taken after thorough consultation between the match officials, the head coaches of both teams, Ashish Nehra (GT), and Stephen Fleming (CSK), and a discussion with the groundsmen. With showers forecasted for Monday as well, there remained a slight possibility of further disruptions.

In the unfortunate event that rain disrupts the match on Monday as well, the Gujarat Titans, who finished above the Chennai Super Kings in the league table, would be declared the champions. This would be a significant twist for both teams and their fans, as they had prepared meticulously for the grand finale.

The IPL final had an anti-climactic start as unseasonal rainfall began pouring just before the scheduled closing ceremony at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had already predicted thunderstorms accompanied by rainfall, but the day had initially promised a sunny afternoon with temperatures expected to reach 42 degrees Celsius.

However, the weather took an unexpected turn, and rain and thunderstorms pounded the city of Ahmedabad on Sunday evening. According to data from the state emergency operation center in Gandhinagar, the state capital, Ahmedabad received a staggering 41mm of rainfall within a span of two hours between 6 pm and 8 pm, making it the second-highest rainfall recorded in Gujarat.

Cricket fans and players alike now eagerly await the rescheduled final on Monday, hoping for clearer skies and a thrilling showdown between the Gujarat Titans and the Chennai Super Kings.