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[Watch] Lahore-Peshawar, Islamabad-Quetta PSL Games Called Off After Relentless Rain

Shaheen Afridi, Babar Azam assess Pindi pitch during PSL (X.com)Shaheen Afridi, Babar Azam assess Pindi pitch during PSL (X.com)

In a major disappointment for Pakistan fans, the opening game of PSL 2024 season's Pindi Leg between Lahore Qalandars and Peshawar Zalmi was called off after heavy rainfall and adverse weather conditions hit the city. 

After successful stints in Lahore and Multan, PSL 2024 caravan shifted to Karachi and Rawalpindi for the second half of the season. On Saturday, a doubleheader was scheduled at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

However, just hours before the afternoon game between Lahore Qalandars and Peshawar Zalmi was set to commence, heavy rainfall hit the city. Moreover, relentless downpours continued throughout the night and early morning of Saturday. Fortunately, the rain gods relented just a few hours before the scheduled start as the teams traveled to the venue. 

But minutes before the inspection, a large-scale rain burst with hail storms hit the ground. The gusty winds forced fans to seek shelter, and abandonment was inevitable.

Owing to the damaging weather forecasts and damp outfield conditions, authorities chose to call off the game. Both Lahore Qalandars and Peshawar Zalmi will share a point each.

Having said that, the groundsman's lack of proactiveness raised significant doubt on the PCB's readiness for PSL. During the downpour, only the pitches were covered, while the rest of the ground was drenched in rain. Also, not enough equipment was seen on the ground to dry out the conditions while the rain stopped for more than an hour or so.

Indeed, the board needs to do better if they wish to ensure the smooth conduct of a franchise league.

Notably, the second game of the Saturday doubleheader is scheduled at the same ground. Islamabad United and Quetta Gladiators are scheduled to lock horns during the evening. But the current condition of the ground seems less promising. Another episode of rain would ruin the odds of a full game.