The One Day Cup final has been reduced to 20 overs based on rain forecast to threaten the game, with the match already having been moved to its reserve day.
The move to shorten the match before the toss took place was pioneering, given that there was still ample time for a full 50-over game to be played if the weather permitted. However, heavy rain is scheduled throughout the day, and reducing the match before play starts increases potential for a full game to be completed, rather than shortening with play already underway.
For example, if Glamorgan, who batted first, batted for 30 overs before the rain came down, then Somerset would have to bat a minimum of 20 overs to constitute a result, meaning the match would be a 50-over game in total. Reducing it to 20 means only 40 overs in total will be played from the start.
Reducing the game before the toss also means both Somerset and Glamorgan could change the selection of the XI from their squad to suit a shorter match. It could also affect the tactics both sides use during the match, given they already know they will have a maximum of 20 overs.
Rain pushed One-Day Cup final into reserve day
The match was scheduled to take place yesterday (September 22), but no play was able to take place due to heavy rain throughout the day. Today (September 23) is the reserve day for the fixture
In the ECB playing conditions for the MetroBank One Day Cup, the minimum number of overs to constitute a game in the final is 20 per side. There is still heavy rain scheduled for the rest of the day in Nottingham, meaning there is still a possibility that a 20-over per side match won't be possible.
What happens if the match is abandoned?
Playing condition 16.10 for the competition states: "In the final, if it is not possible for both teams to receive the minimum number of overs necessary to constitute a match (20 overs) then the trophy shall be shared."
If the rain does mean the match can't be completed, the One Day Cup will be shared for the first time in its history.
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