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What Happens If Rain Washes Out IPL 2023 Final Between CSK and GT in Ahmedabad? Alternate Plans in Place

The stage is set for an epic battle in the final of the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL) as the Chennai Super Kings ( CSK ) gear up to face the defending champions, Gujarat Titans (GT). In what will be a repeat of the season opener and the first qualifier, both teams are ready to leave it all on the field to claim the prestigious title.

The Super Kings have staged an incredible comeback this year, overcoming a disappointing 9th-place finish in the previous season. Battling through injuries and team balance issues, they have defied all odds to secure a spot in the final. CSK will be hoping to replicate their success from 2021 when they clinched the title after finishing 7th in IPL 2020.

Meanwhile, the Gujarat Titans have proven their mettle this season, with four of their players dominating the run-scoring and wicket-taking charts. The defending champions have only grown stronger, showcasing their formidable skills throughout the tournament.

With the match scheduled to take place in Ahmedabad , the importance of the toss might be diminished due to the venue's history. In the 26 IPL matches held at this location, teams batting first and chasing have each emerged victorious on 13 occasions. However, as seen in the playoffs, the knockout stage brings a different level of pressure, and having runs on the board could prove crucial, despite the recent rainfall in Ahmedabad.

Recent weather conditions have caused concerns regarding rain interruptions during the final. The forecast predicts a 61% chance of rain in the city on Sunday evening, with thunderstorms also anticipated. Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma's decision to bowl first in a previous match was foiled by inclement weather and an exceptional century from Shubman Gill . Therefore, the captain winning the toss may not be swayed by the potential rain and will make their decision accordingly.

In the event of rain delays, the match has provisions in place to ensure completion. A 5-over-per-side clash can be accommodated if the game is delayed until 12:26 PM IST. Additionally, a reserve day, Monday, May 29, is allocated to resume the match from the point of interruption, with an additional 120 minutes added to the usual timings. Should only a toss occur on the matchday without any play, a fresh toss will take place on the reserve day.

However, if persistent rain continues to hinder proceedings, a shortened game will be enforced, with the latest possible time for a super over decider set at 1:20 AM IST on Tuesday, May 30. If conditions persist and prevent any play on the reserve day, the Gujarat Titans will be declared the winners, having finished above the Chennai Super Kings in the league stage.

Cricket enthusiasts worldwide eagerly anticipate the final showdown between CSK and GT, hoping for an enthralling contest between these two powerhouses of the IPL. Despite the looming rain uncertainties, the teams are determined to leave a lasting impression and etch their names in IPL history as the champions of the 2023 edition.

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