BP XI vs SA: Heavy rains wash out play on first day

With rains forecast later today, there is a sense of pessimism around with the untiring groundstaff who have been working overtime to see the venue fit for play.

No play was possible on day one of the tour match. (FILE IMAGE)

Heavy rains forced abandonment of the first day's play between South Africa and the Board President's XI in the three-day warm-up game at Dr. PVG Raju Sports Complex here on Thursday.

The venue experienced heavy rains this morning before giving a break around 9 a.m..

However, with the sun not coming out at all as dark clouds hovered over the ground forcing the groundstaff to keep the covers on right through and with another sharp shower around 12.30 p.m. any hopes of late start have further diminished.

The umpires finally called off play for the day after a final inspection at 1.00 p.m..

Even as the officials and the players were keeping their fingers crossed, the fans displayed typical spirit chanting 'Rohit, Rohit' the couple of times President XI captain Rohit Sharma came out of the dressing room.

BCCI senior selection panel chairman M.S.K. Prasad was there to monitor the preparations as he was the Director of Operations of Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) earlier when cricket infrastructure got a major fillip in all these small town centres.

He was also seen having a long chat with Rohit when the painful wait was on for action which eventually didn't take place.

With rains forecast later today, there is a sense of pessimism around with the untiring groundstaff who have been working overtime to see the ground fit for play.