Rain Delays India vs Bangladesh Match as Uma Chetry Makes ODI Debut for India
Navi Mumbai, October 26 (TheTrendingPeople.com): The start of Match 28 of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup between India and Bangladesh was delayed on Sunday due to a spell of rain at the Dr. DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.
The teams had just begun their warmups under heavy overcast conditions when light drizzle turned into a persistent shower, forcing the ground staff to rush in with the covers. Within minutes, nearly 75 percent of the field was covered, and players retreated to their dugouts as the drizzle intensified.
Toss and Play Delayed Amid Uncertain Weather
The toss, scheduled shortly before the start, was delayed by over 15 minutes as ground staff worked tirelessly to drain the field. The drizzle lasted about ten minutes, but it was enough to postpone proceedings further. Even as the covers were being removed, dark clouds continued to hover, prompting officials to keep the floodlights on early.
Just when it seemed that play could begin shortly, rain returned once again, forcing the ground staff to bring the covers back over the central pitch. The uncertainty over whether a full game could take place grew as the drizzle persisted intermittently.
Officials and fans alike are keeping a close watch on the skies, as the day’s conditions remain unpredictable.
Uma Chetry Makes Historic ODI Debut
While the weather cast a shadow over the start, the day brought a historic moment for Indian cricket. Uma Chetry, the talented wicketkeeper-batter from Assam, was handed her ODI debut cap before the match.
Chetry replaced Richa Ghosh, who injured her finger while fielding a delivery in India’s previous encounter against New Zealand at the same venue on October 23.
In a brief but emotional ceremony on the ground, vice-captain Smriti Mandhana presented Chetry with her debut cap before rain forced players back to the dugout. Chetry, who has already represented India in T20Is, now becomes the first woman cricketer from Assam to play an ODI for India.
Her inclusion marks an important milestone for women’s cricket in the northeast, highlighting India’s expanding talent base in the sport.
Match Context: A Battle for Pride and Preparation
Although the semifinal lineup has already been decided, Sunday’s fixture remains crucial for both teams.
For India, it’s a chance to fine-tune their playing combination and maintain momentum ahead of their semifinal clash with Australia on October 30, also scheduled at the DY Patil Stadium. The team’s morale is high after their dominant win over New Zealand, and this game offers an opportunity to test depth and balance in the squad.
For Bangladesh, the match is about pride and opportunity — a chance to upset a top-four team and end their campaign on a positive note.
Weather Concerns Loom Over Semifinal Too
Adding to India’s concern is the weather forecast for the upcoming semifinal against Australia. Meteorological predictions indicate a strong possibility of rain on Thursday, October 30, raising fears that the knockout match could also face interruptions at the same venue.
Officials may need to prepare for potential delays and contingency plans to ensure the semifinals proceed smoothly.
Ground Staff Battle the Elements
The ground crew at DY Patil Stadium have been at the heart of the action, working relentlessly between showers to protect the playing surface. Their quick response has minimized waterlogging and kept hopes alive for play to resume.
Despite the challenges, the atmosphere in the stadium remains hopeful, with fans waiting patiently for live action to begin. The Indian players, meanwhile, stayed in their dugout, maintaining their warmup routines as much as the conditions allowed.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
While rain delays may have dampened the start, the momentous debut of Uma Chetry ensures that this match will be remembered for more than just the weather. Her rise from Assam to the international stage embodies the inclusivity and growing reach of women’s cricket in India.
With semifinals approaching, India’s focus will be on preparation and consistency, even as nature continues to play its unpredictable role. Whether today’s contest goes the full distance or not, the spirit of the game — and the pride of representing the nation — remains undiminished.