Parts of Bengaluru have been placed under yellow alert until November 10, raising concerns about the upcoming World Cup 2023 match between New Zealand and Sri Lanka at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. The yellow alert signifies the likelihood of heavy rainfall, and it’s causing jitters in the cricketing world.

In the worst-case scenario, the match could face a complete washout. Bengaluru is currently grappling with forecasts of four thunderstorms during the day, compounding the apprehension. The city has already experienced heavy rainfall over the past four to five days, prompting the MET department to issue a yellow alert on Monday. A yellow alert typically indicates rainfall between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm in a single day.

Parts of Bengaluru have been grappling with flooding since Monday, accompanied by widespread waterlogging in various areas. While the situation improved slightly on Wednesday, the weather forecast for Thursday remains uncertain, casting a shadow of doubt over the scheduled match.

Despite the ominous weather, the Chinnaswamy Stadium boasts one of the best drainage facilities among all cricket venues in the country. It can be ready for action within just half an hour of rainfall. However, if the rain is relentless and heavy, it may pose challenges in ensuring the match proceeds. The consequences of a washout would be significant, especially in terms of the World Cup points table.

A potential washout in the New Zealand vs. Sri Lanka match would result in both teams sharing points. New Zealand would remain stuck at 9 points, while Sri Lanka would inch up to 5. While Sri Lanka’s chances of reaching the World Cup semi-finals are slim, a rain washout would deal a heavy blow to New Zealand’s aspirations as the fourth-ranked side.

A rain-disrupted match between NZ and SL would open a golden opportunity for Pakistan to sneak into the semi-finals. With 8 points in 8 matches and an upcoming clash against England, who are already out of the tournament, Pakistan’s path to the semi-finals could be secured.

Afghanistan, too, have a slim chance of making it to the semi-finals if they manage to defeat South Africa. However, their net run rate could become a stumbling block. Even if they secure a significant victory against South Africa, Pakistan holds the advantage of knowing the exact equation, as their match against England is scheduled later.

After a two-day break in Kolkata, the Pakistani players regrouped for a three-hour practice session, focusing on all aspects of their game. Shadab, who suffered a concussion during the match against South Africa, made a strong comeback in both bowling and batting during the practice session.

Babar, Pakistan’s key batsman, has struggled with inconsistency, with four half-centuries from eight innings but no triple-digit scores. He has also lost his No. 1 ODI batter ranking and is in dire need of a substantial performance. Babar was seen putting in the effort during practice, especially against pace sensation Shaheen Shah Afridi and employing sweep shots to counter the spinners in spin-friendly conditions.

Pacer Haris Rauf, who recently had an injury scare, returned to practice after undergoing an MRI for a left rib injury. His presence in full flow during the practice session bodes well for Pakistan’s bowling attack.