ODI World Cup 2023: All scenarios if rain washes out both semifinals

As the cricketing world braces for the intense semifinals of the ODI World Cup 2023, the spotlight is on the clash between hosts India and New Zealand at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. In a riveting repeat of the 2019 encounter, India seeks redemption against the Black Caps, while Kane Williamson’s side eyes its maiden World Cup triumph.

While rain played a crucial role in the 2019 World Cup encounter between India and New Zealand at Old Trafford, the current edition seems less likely to face such weather disruptions. Nevertheless, the specter of rain looms, raising questions about the ramifications for the semifinal clashes and who will secure a coveted spot in the finals.

In the event of rain impacting the scheduled match day, the tournament’s knockout matches come equipped with an additional safeguard—a reserve day. If the actual match day is washed out, the action will seamlessly transition to the reserve day. However, should rain persist on the reserve day, the team with a higher position in the points table will advance. For India, sitting atop the points table, this would mean an automatic qualification for the finals in case of a rain-induced abandonment.

Can we witness the best of the best finals in ODI World Cup 2023?

The drama intensifies in the second semifinal showdown between South Africa and Australia at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. South Africa, finishing second in the points table with seven wins in nine games, holds a favorable position. Notably, their league-stage losses to Netherlands and India serve as a reminder of the team’s vulnerability.

Australia, securing the third spot with seven victories in nine league games, faced setbacks against India and South Africa in their initial fixtures. However, their aspirations to clinch the second position were hindered by a poor net run rate. With this, it’s certain that if rain washes out both of the semifinals, we can witness the best of the best finals. As table-toppers India might take on second-placed South Africa in the finals in case of rain interruptions.