Cricket fans are holding their breath as the highly-anticipated India vs Sri Lanka Asia Cup 2023 final at the R Premadasa International Stadium in Colombo faces the ominous spectre of rain on September 17. Following a relatively dry day on September 16, weather forecasts for September 17 have raised concerns among fans and players alike.

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This year's Asia Cup has already seen multiple interruptions due to inclement weather, with the Super Four stage, primarily hosted in Colombo, bearing the brunt of rain.

Colombo weather update for September 17

AccuWeather's forecast predicts a nearly 90 per cent chance of precipitation in Colombo on September 17. Cloud cover is expected to shroud the city at 99 percent. The much-anticipated India vs Sri Lanka final match is scheduled to commence at 3 pm IST, with the rain probability lingering throughout the afternoon and into the evening, casting a foreboding shadow over the final.

Rain could play a decisive role in the final's outcome. The team that wins the toss will face a challenging dilemma, considering the complexities of chasing a target in a rain-affected match. Additionally, both teams will be closely monitoring the weather in the lead-up to the toss, fully aware that substantial rainfall could significantly transform the nature of the pitch.

What happens if rain dampens the Asia Cup Final 2023

In the unfortunate event of rain interrupting the Asia Cup final showdown between India and Sri Lanka, contingency plans are in place. Should the need arise, a reserve day will be enforced, and the match's duration will mirror where it left off at the close of day one. In case of a disruption caused by rain, the reserve match will be played on September 18, Monday, if the India vs Sri Lanka face off. However, the organisers remain resolute in their commitment to concluding the match on the originally scheduled day, even if it entails abbreviating the fixture.

Cricket enthusiasts worldwide are fervently hoping for clear skies on September 17, facilitating an uninterrupted showdown in the India vs Sri Lanka Asia Cup 2023 final. Nevertheless, a watchful eye is being kept on the ever-changing weather, ensuring that the culminating moment of the tough tournament is determined where it should be – on the pitch.

(with inputs from agencies)