While India have secured their spot in the Super Eight stage after defeating the USA on Wednesday, the remaining teams in Group AâUSA, Canada, Ireland, and Pakistanâare in a fierce battle for the final qualifying position. As it stands, all four teams still have a mathematical chance of advancing. Pakistan, the 2022 T20 World Cup finalists, have only one win from their three matches. However, they can progress to the next round if they beat Ireland and the USA loses to Ireland. If either match is washed out, the USA, with two wins already, will qualify. Canada (one win from three) and Ireland (no wins from two) are currently lower on the table.
The washout on June 11 also impacted Group D, pushing Sri Lanka and Nepal to the brink of elimination. The consequences of continued rainfall extend beyond mere scheduling frustrations. Pakistan's hopes in the tournament hinge significantly on the outcome of the USA vs. Ireland match. For Pakistan to remain in contention for the Super 8, they require Ireland to secure a victory. A washout, however, would see the USA gain a vital point, ensuring their qualification and simultaneously knocking Pakistan out of the competition.
A minimum of five overs is required to constitute a match, and there are no reserve days for the group-stage games. The first semi-final and the final do have reserve days, but the second semi-final does not, given the tight scheduling with only a day's gap before the final.
FLORIDA WEATHER FORECAST
Rain and thunderstorms are forecasted to persist, posing a substantial risk of washouts and disruptions for the upcoming matches. The tournament has already felt the impact of Florida's volatile weather, with the match between Sri Lanka and Nepal abandoned due to rain on Tuesday. Now, attention turns to the crucial encounter between the USA and Ireland, scheduled for Friday, June 14. Weather forecasts predict heavy thunderstorms throughout the week, casting doubt on the possibility of play.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has underscored the gravity of the weather situation, noting that the persistent rainfall and resultant flooding have compromised essential infrastructure, including major roads, airports, and schools. These disruptions are anticipated to continue, with a 60 to 70 percent chance of rain forecasted during the USA vs. Ireland match, set to start at 10:30 AM local time on June 14.
AccuWeather Screengrab"A weather system brought South Florida excessive rain yesterday (Tuesday) and today. It is likely to continue through Friday. The City Of Lauderhill has crews working in areas of concern to help minimize ponding," a press note on the official website of the city of Lauderhill states.
The precarious weather conditions also loom over the Pakistan vs Ireland match on June 16, with a 47% chance of rain forecasted. Pakistan, currently with two losses in three matches, holds a slim chance of advancing to the Super 8 stage.