KOLKATA: Australian pace bowlers Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood rattled South Africa’s top order in the 2nd Semi-Final of the ICC World Cup 2023, but, the action was halted after 14 overs due to rain at Eden Gardens.

The match was then resumed after a brief rain interruption, however, there is a prediction of more rain in the city today and tomorrow, which leaves the possibility of a complete washout open.

South Africa holds an advantage in that case as in case of a washout, they will qualify for the final, owing to their superior position in the points table at the group stage of the ICC World Cup 2023.

South Africa and Australia both won seven matches and earned 14 points during the group stage but the former ended at second position with a better net run rate – 1.261.

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But, before the match is abandoned, umpires would make an effort to complete the match as the knockout matches during ICC events have a reserve day.

In case of more rain interruptions during the scheduled day, the first priority would be to reduce overs and complete the match on the same day. Notably, each team must play at least 20 overs to get a result.

The game will only enter the reserve day if 20-over play is not possible on that day.

If the rain persists for two days and does not allow at least 20 overs per side, then the match will be ‘no result’ and South Africa will qualify for the final for the first time.

The host nation India have already qualified for the final, after thumping New Zealand by 70 runs during the first semi-final of the ICC World Cup 2023.

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