Continuous rainfall and flooding in South Florida threaten the upcoming T20 World Cup matches scheduled in Florida, including a crucial Friday game between the USA and Ireland. South Florida has declared a state of emergency due to severe flooding exacerbated by record rainfall, with more expected.
The Lauderhill Cricket Stadium, where the match is set to occur, is currently waterlogged. This situation jeopardizes the USA-Ireland match and Pakistan’s remaining chances in the tournament. Pakistan will be eliminated from the competition if the USA-Ireland match is cancelled.
Pakistan’s team, led by Babar Azam, has secured only one win in three matches. It defeated Canada but lost to the USA and India. More rain forecasted for Thursday and Friday continues to disrupt the area, leading to extensive flooding, traffic disruptions, and submerged vehicles and homes.
The game on Friday at Central Broward Stadium, crucial for the USA and Ireland, remains uncertain. The USA has had varied success, defeating Canada and Pakistan but losing to India, while Ireland has lost both its initial games. Historically, teams batting first at Central Broward Stadium have won 11 of 18 matches, but the adverse weather conditions may heavily influence the upcoming game.
Pakistan’s Precarious Path: A Race Against Weather and Rivals
Pakistan’s path to the Super 8 hinges on several outcomes, including performance and other match results. They need Ireland to defeat the USA, India to overcome Canada, and then to beat Ireland themselves. Even if these results occur, Pakistan and the USA could end up tied on points, with the net run rate potentially deciding their fate.
The persistent rain has already led to the cancellation of the Sri Lanka vs Nepal match on June 11. With more thunderstorms expected, including a 91% chance of rain during the USA vs Ireland match and a 47% chance for the Pakistan vs Ireland clash, Pakistan’s prospects are grim.
This weather interruption is a potentially major setback for Pakistan, the 2009 champions, especially after keeping their hopes alive with a recent victory over Canada.
