Metro53 - Colombo (Web Desk):The stage is set in Colombo for the blockbuster Pakistan vs India encounter in the T20 World Cup, with cricket fans eagerly awaiting one of the biggest rivalries in world cricket. However, weather concerns have emerged ahead of the high-profile match.
According to the Sri Lanka Department of Meteorology, a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal could affect weather conditions in Colombo. Cloud cover is expected to persist, though the likelihood of heavy rain during match hours has reportedly decreased.
Both teams will face off in a day-night match on Sunday at the iconic R. Premadasa Stadium, where conditions are expected to favor spin bowling. Pakistan’s spin unit, led by Usman Tariq, is being viewed as a key threat to the Indian batting lineup. He will be supported by Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Shadab Khan, and Saim Ayub, while Shaheen Shah Afridi and Faheem Ashraf will handle pace duties.
India’s batting lineup, featuring in-form batters Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, and Suryakumar Yadav, will look to counter Pakistan’s bowling attack. All-rounder Hardik Pandya has also impressed with his consistent performances. Aggressive opener Abhishek Sharma, who recently recovered from a stomach illness, has traveled with the squad, though a final decision on his inclusion has yet to be made.
On the Pakistani side, the batting will rely heavily on strong starts from Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub, with Salman Ali Agha expected to contribute at number three. Captain Babar Azam remains central to Pakistan’s hopes, tasked with anchoring the innings while maintaining a healthy scoring rate.
Security arrangements for the match are extremely tight, with armed personnel accompanying both teams at all times. Security coverage extends from team hotels to practice sessions and match-day movements.
All match tickets were sold out well in advance, with reports of tickets being resold on the black market. A large influx of Pakistani and Indian fans from around the world has significantly boosted Sri Lanka’s tourism, particularly in Colombo.
Historically, Pakistan and India have played 16 T20 Internationals so far, with India winning 12 matches, Pakistan securing 3 victories, and one famous 2007 contest ending in a bowl-out tie.
Weather forecasts indicate that while rain chances are gradually decreasing, there remains a 50–60 percent possibility of showers between 1:00 pm and 7:00 pm. Light rain or drizzle may occur between 7:00 pm and 10:00 pm, potentially leading to reduced overs. The stadium, however, is equipped with an efficient drainage system and full ground covers, allowing play to resume within 45 to 60 minutes after rainfall in normal conditions.
The match is scheduled to begin at 7:00 pm local time, with fans hoping the weather stays clear enough to allow a full contest in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
