The second Test match between India and Bangladesh at the Green Park Stadium in Kanpur has been heavily impacted by rain and wet conditions, leading to significant delays and reduced play. With the third consecutive day being abandoned without a ball bowled, the game is now inching towards an inevitable draw. Despite improved weather forecasts for the remaining days, the time lost makes it difficult for either team to push for a decisive result.
Day 1 and Day 2: Play Disrupted by Rain
The match initially started under challenging conditions, with India winning the toss and electing to field. The visitors were reduced to 29 for 2 in the first session, thanks to an excellent spell by Indian pacer Akash Deep. However, Bangladesh showed resilience with a steady 51-run partnership between Najmul Hossain Shanto (31) and Mominul Haque (40*). By the end of the day, the Tigers had managed to reach 107 for 3 when bad light and rain interrupted play. Day 2, however, was a complete washout without a single delivery being bowled.
Day 3: Wet Outfield Compounds Frustration
Sunday, the third day, also saw no action as overnight rains left the outfield too damp for play. Although there was no rain during the day, the wet patches on the outfield made conditions unsafe for the players. The umpires conducted three inspections — at 10 am, 12 pm, and 2 pm — before finally deciding to call off the day’s play. The state of the ground, despite the best efforts of the ground staff, could not be improved in time, leading to widespread disappointment among fans.
The Impact of Rain and Field Conditions
The persistent delays have brought the stadium’s infrastructure under scrutiny. Green Park’s drainage system, which has faced criticism in the past, failed to cope with the wet conditions, leading to slow drying times. This has not only hampered the flow of the match but also raised concerns about the venue’s preparedness for international fixtures of this stature.
What’s Next for the Test Match?
With two days left, the chances of a result seem slim unless there is aggressive play from both teams. The forecast for the final two days looks more promising, with minimal chances of rain. However, with only 35 overs bowled across three days, and Bangladesh still in their first innings, both teams will need to accelerate if they are to achieve a definitive outcome. India, who lead the series 1-0, will aim to make the most of whatever playtime is left to secure a series victory.
Looking Ahead
As things stand, the second Test appears set to end in a draw, robbing both teams of crucial points in the ICC World Test Championship. The focus will now shift to the upcoming three-match T20 series between India and Bangladesh, which is set to begin on October 6. With the Test series almost wrapped up, the T20 series presents both teams an opportunity to build momentum and test their squads in the shorter format.
For the remainder of the match, both sides will be keeping a close eye on the skies, hoping that the conditions allow for some uninterrupted cricket action. If weather permits, there is a chance that the final two days could offer a thrilling contest, albeit under severe time constraints.