A start-stop drizzle and damp outfield meant no play was possible on the second day of the second Test between India and Bangladesh at the Green Park Stadium.
The ground remained under covers throughout the day, and even though the super soppers came out in between, there wasn’t much that the groundsmen could do to get the game started.
With overnight rains, the outfield was soggy and there were puddles in some areas, and adding to the woes, there was a steady drizzle till around 10am on Saturday. Though the intensity of the rain reduced thereafter, the match officials called it a day around 2pm.
Even though the players returned to the hotel around 10.30am, the spectators braved the rain and waited for the game to start. However, they were dejected as no action could be possible.
The rain forecast continues on Sunday as well, even though the venue officials are confident of getting the ground ready if it doesn’t rain anymore.
After India won the toss and opted to field, only 35 overs were possible on the opening day, with Bangladesh recovering from two early blows by Akash Deep and ending the day at 107 for 3.
On a surface where Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj struggled to find breakthroughs, Akash made an immediate impact as he was introduced in the ninth over. After surviving the early spells, Bangladesh openers Shadman Islam and Zakir Hasan were put to test and Akash ensured that he sent both back to the pavilion.
However, India failed to make further inroads as captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mominul Haque rebuilt. Though R. Ashwin removed the skipper shortly after lunch, Mominul and the seasoned Mushfiqur Rahim overcame a few nervy moments before rain drew curtains on the day’s play.
And, as the the players and the spectators hoped against hope on the second day, with eyes on the sky, the weather had the final say.
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