The opening day’s play in the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl on Friday has been called off due to rain. The toss and match were initially delayed due to rain. It was eventually called off by the umpiring team after over four hours of wait.

According to weather forecasts by The Weather Channel, the next four days are also likely to be disrupted by rains. June 22 is the fifth day of the Test match, but June 23 is the reserve day. There were rains in Southampton on Thursday as well. If the match ends in a draw, the trophy will be shared by the two teams.

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The match will be played until the reserve day since the first day has been suspended. The women’s test match between India and England at Bristol has also been delayed due to rain.

There was a forecast of rain and thundershowers on Thursday with relentless downpour continuing till afternoon. It is learnt that BCCI was taken into confidence by both the ICC and England and Wales Cricket Board before they finalised Ageas Bowl as the venue, which also has a five-star facility within the premises, helping to create a tight bio-secure bubble, reported PTI.

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This is the inaugural World Test Championship (WTC), and it began in 2019. Nine teams have taken part in the competitions, and the top two teams from the table qualified for the final.