RCB vs GT: What happens if IPL 2026 final gets washed out as rain threat looms large
PTC News Desk: Rain could once again become a major talking point on the day of the IPL final in Ahmedabad. A similar situation occurred in 2023 when continuous rain forced the final between Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans to be postponed to the reserve day. Even then, bad weather nearly disrupted the match before conditions improved enough for a shortened 15-over contest.
Three years later, Gujarat have returned to the final and once again face the possibility of rain in Ahmedabad. In the 2023 final, Gujarat, who were defending champions at the time, lost to Chennai. They failed to reach the final in the next two seasons and slipped to eighth place in 2024 after the departure of Hardik Pandya. However, the team bounced back strongly, reaching the playoffs in 2025 and now making another run to the final in 2026.
This time, Gujarat will take on defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru, who have already beaten them twice in three meetings this season, including in Qualifier 1 earlier this week.
Ahmedabad witnessed bright sunshine on Sunday morning, with temperatures above 40°C. However, the weather department has issued a yellow alert for parts of Gujarat. While some rain is expected in and around the city, current forecasts suggest there is only a small chance of rain affecting the match.
Still, weather can change quickly at this time of year, so showers during the final cannot be completely ruled out.
What if rain interrupts the IPL 2026 final?
Rain will not automatically lead to the match being abandoned. Officials will first wait for the weather to improve and try to complete the game.
If there is a long delay, the number of overs may be reduced. At least five overs per side are needed for a result. For a five-over match to take place, play must begin before the revised cut-off time, which is usually 11:55 PM IST.
If no play is possible on the scheduled day because of rain, the IPL 2026 final will be shifted to the reserve day on Monday, June 1.
- With inputs from agencies
