The World Test Championship (WTC) Final between India and New Zealand is all set to go into the reserve day. This is a very rare occasion, something that had come into play during the 2019 ODI World Cup match between the same teams. In that case too, the game was being played in England, showcasing the fact that the fickle English weather can never be trusted.
After Day 1 was washed out due to persistent showers and puddles of water in the outfield, Day 4 saw a similar fate. Since its impossible to have 450 overs bowled in 3 days, a reserve day was put in place by the ICC. The marquee clash has already moved to Day 5, where New Zealand has gained the upper hand.
After being put in to bat first, India fumbled a good start provided by Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. They were shot out for 217, with Kyle Jamieson picking up a fifer. Going in with the upper hand, the Kiwi openers laid a strong foundation with a 70-run stand. Just like India, they soon lost their way, looking like they were set to concede a first-innings lead at 162/6.
However, skipper Williamson and the lower order managed to put a fight, eventually adding 87 runs for the last four wickets to end up with a lead of 32 runs at Tea on Day 5.
Weather Forecast for Day 6 in Southampton
ICC confirms reserve day (June 23rd) will have 98 overs in the WTC final.
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) June 22, 2021
Although the weather has been quite dull over the last few days, the reserve day will see things look much brighter, figuratively and literally. The weather is expected to be sunny through most parts of the day, with clouds hovering around in typical English conditions style.
Humidity is expected to be on the lower side, with expected precipitation at 0.00mm. This sets up a wonderful finish to the WTC Final and comes as a relief for fans who have had to endure painful waiting sessions throughout the game. If the game ends in a draw, the trophy will be shared by the two teams.