IND W vs SA W Final: The stage is set for a historic Women’s World Cup 2025 final at the Dr DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, where India Women aim to lift the trophy for the first time, while South Africa Women make their debut in a World Cup final. Fans are buzzing with excitement after India’s record-breaking chase against Australia and South Africa’s dominant win over England in the semi-finals.
But cricket, as always, has its unpredictable twists. With a 25% chance of rain predicted on match day, there’s a real possibility the game could face interruptions. So, what happens if the weather plays spoilsport? Here’s a breakdown of the ICC rules for a rain-affected Women’s World Cup final:
1. Officials Aim to Complete the Game on the Scheduled Day
Even if rain disrupts play, match officials will try their best to finish the final on Sunday. This could involve reducing the number of overs for each side depending on how much time is lost.
2. Minimum Overs Requirement
To declare a winner on the scheduled day, both teams must play at least 20 overs per side. If rain prevents this, the match is rescheduled to the reserve day.
3. Reserve Day Comes Into Play
The ICC has set Monday, November 2, as the reserve day. If play is washed out on Sunday, the match resumes on Monday as a 50-over game. Any overs reductions from the first day carry over to the reserve day.
4. Shared Trophy if Both Days Are Washed Out
In the rare scenario where rain stops play on both the original and reserve days, the trophy will be shared between India and South Africa, declaring both teams as joint champions.
The Bottom Line
While fans hope for a full, thrilling final, the ICC has a clear plan to ensure a fair result, even in case of heavy rain. Whether it’s a reduced 20-over match or the reserve day stepping in, every effort will be made to see a champion crowned.
Cricket is a game of unpredictability, and this final could still throw up one last twist before the ultimate showdown.
