Colombo: A high risk of rain could disrupt the India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup match scheduled for Sunday evening at the R Premadasa Stadium, with Sri Lanka’s meteorological authorities warning of a developing low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal.
Two days before the marquee Group A contest, weather in Colombo has remained largely clear. However, the Sri Lanka Department of Meteorology has forecast scattered thunderstorms across the Khettarama area, where the stadium is located, with a 50–70% chance of rain during the afternoon and evening.
Temperatures are expected to peak between 30°C and 31°C under warm and humid conditions. Some forecast models indicate heavy thundershowers in the hours leading up to the 7pm local start, raising the possibility of a delayed toss or a shortened match. While partial clearing is possible after 8pm, isolated showers may continue into the night.
Stadium preparedness and drainage
The R Premadasa Stadium is equipped with a modern drainage system and full-ground cover protection. Unlike many venues that only cover the pitch, the stadium can shield the entire playing surface, preventing the outfield from absorbing excess water.
Ground staff follow established protocols, manually transferring water across covers toward perimeter drains. Under typical conditions, the field can be made playable within 45 to 60 minutes after heavy rain stops.
Rain is also forecast on Saturday, which may affect India’s scheduled training session.
Group standings at stake
So far, no matches in Sri Lanka during this T20 World Cup have been affected by weather, despite earlier forecasts of rain in other fixtures.
Both India national cricket team and Pakistan national cricket team have four points from two games. India currently top Group A due to a superior net run rate of 3.050 compared to Pakistan’s 0.932.
If the match is washed out, each team will receive one point, as there is no reserve day allocated for group-stage fixtures.
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