The second Test between India and Bangladesh kicked off in Kanpur on Friday, September 27, but things did not go as planned for Team India. Despite entering the match with confidence after a dominant win in the first Test, the opening day of the second Test was marred by rain and bad light, leading to a shortened day of play. Only 35 overs were possible, which has now raised concerns for Team India, especially with bad weather predicted for the next two days. This disruption not only hampers India’s chances of wrapping up the series with a clean sweep but could also have long-term implications for their World Test Championship (WTC) campaign.
Only 35 Overs Played Due to Rain and Bad Light
From the very beginning, it was clear that weather would play a significant role in this Test. The start of the match at Kanpur’s Green Park Stadium was delayed by an hour due to a wet outfield. Once play began, Bangladesh, after opting to bat first, managed to score 107 runs at the loss of 3 wickets before the weather intervened again.
Rain and bad light repeatedly interrupted play, with the first session itself being cut short. Even after lunch, the weather continued to affect proceedings, allowing only 9 overs in the second session before heavy rain forced the players off the field for the day. As a result, only 35 overs were bowled on Day 1, leaving Team India in a tough spot as they chase a series win.
Weather Forecast for the Next Two Days Looks Gloomy
What makes matters worse for Team India is the bleak weather forecast for the next two days. According to predictions, Kanpur is expected to receive heavy rainfall throughout Saturday and Sunday, with an 80% chance of rain on Saturday alone. The persistent rainy conditions are likely to impact the third day as well, further reducing the chances of play.
This weather scenario means that large portions of the match could be washed out, making it difficult for either team to push for a result. While this situation may benefit Bangladesh by reducing India’s chances of securing a clean sweep, it puts immense pressure on Team India, who are aiming to maximize their victories in the WTC cycle.
Impact on India’s World Test Championship Hopes
Team India’s ambitions in the World Test Championship (WTC) could take a hit if the Kanpur Test does not go their way. Currently ranked No. 1 in the WTC standings, India needs to win a significant portion of their remaining matches to ensure qualification for the final. Before this series, India had 10 Test matches remaining, of which they need to win at least 5 to secure their place in the final.
The win in the first Test against Bangladesh was a good start, but with three matches against New Zealand coming up and five Tests in Australia later, India’s road to the final is not straightforward. Winning all five home matches—including the current one—would give India some breathing room before the tougher Australia tour. However, with rain threatening to wash out the Kanpur Test, India may lose a valuable opportunity to collect crucial WTC points.
Bangladesh Takes Advantage as Rain Reduces India’s Clean Sweep Chances
For Bangladesh, the weather disruptions have come as a blessing in disguise. After being outplayed in the first Test, Bangladesh now stands a good chance of avoiding a series whitewash due to the reduced playing time in Kanpur. While they are still trailing with only 107 runs on the board and three wickets down, the shortened match could help them salvage a draw, frustrating India’s hopes of securing a quick victory.
As things stand, Team India will be hoping for a break in the weather, while Bangladesh will be content with the rain continuing to play its part. Both teams will have to navigate the unpredictable weather over the next few days to push for a favorable outcome. However, one thing is clear—Team India’s path to the World Test Championship final has just gotten a lot trickier.
