Rain delays USA-Ireland T20 World Cup clash in Lauderhill

LAUDERHILL: The start of Friday’s T20 World Cup match between the United States and Ireland was delayed by two hours as ground staff battled to remove standing water from the outfield.

South Florida has been hit by heavy rain and flooding, which also led to the abandonment of Tuesday’s game between Sri Lanka and Nepal at Lauderhill.

Heavy showers earlier on Friday morning added to the challenges, and umpires scheduled their third pitch inspection for 12:30 local time — two hours after the match was initially set to begin.

Also read: Pakistan can still qualify for Super 8 with Indian win over US

The Group A clash holds significant implications: if the game is abandoned, the USA will qualify for the Super Eights stage alongside group leader India. This outcome would eliminate Pakistan, Ireland, and Canada from the tournament.

As rain continues to impact the T20 World Cup, teams and fans alike are left anxiously awaiting the umpires’ decision, which could reshape the tournament’s trajectory.

If the rain in Fort Lauderdale leads to the cancellation of the crucial match between the USA and Ireland, both teams will share points, the USA will secure their spot in the Super Eight round, effectively eliminating Pakistan from the tournament.