Navi Mumbai, November 2 — Unseasonal rains once again disrupted proceedings at the DY Patil Stadium, delaying the start of the much-anticipated ICC Women’s ODI World Cup final between India and South Africa on Sunday.
After a brief morning drizzle gave way to sunshine, dark clouds returned to the venue around 2:45 pm, forcing ground staff to cover the pitch just when the toss was scheduled to take place. The start of play, initially rescheduled to 3:30 pm, was further delayed as heavy rain lashed the stadium.
Officials said overs would be reduced only if the delay continued beyond 5 pm.
This is the fourth match in Navi Mumbai to be hit by rain during the tournament. Every game at DY Patil Stadium has either been delayed, interrupted, or abandoned due to unseasonal showers.
The weather setback has cast a shadow over what was expected to be a historic contest — India’s third final in tournament history and South Africa’s maiden appearance. While India enter the game as favourites after their record semifinal chase against Australia, the Proteas have already beaten the hosts once during the league stage.
With Jemimah Rodrigues’ unbeaten 127 and Harmanpreet Kaur’s fiery 89 still fresh in memory, fans had hoped for another iconic day — but for now, the rain continues to dictate play in Navi Mumbai.
