IPL 2023 final: Who wins the title if reserve day is washed out?

A full-house at the Narendra Modi Stadium was left disappointed on Sunday (May 28) after persistent rain did not even allow the toss to take place. As a result, the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 final between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Gujarat Titans (GT) was pushed to the reserve day (Monday, May 29). If the rain relents, we could have some action on Monday, and as things stand, there are high chances of the game going ahead as scheduled.

Regardless, this is the first time in 16 IPL seasons we will see a final go to the reserve day.

What's the weather like in Ahmedabad?

According to reports, there are thunderstorms expected at around 5 PM today, but that is unlikely to affect the match and there are high chances of us getting an entire game.

What time will the match begin?

Like all evening matches in IPL 2023, the final too will begin at 7.30 PM. The toss (if weather permits) will take place at 7 PM.

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What are the implications of a rain-affected reserve day?

The cut-off time for a complete 20-over contest is 9.35 PM. However, we can have a five-over match, provided play starts by 12.06 AM (on Tuesday, May 30), or a Super Over will decide the game. However, the match will be called-off if play cannot start by 1.20 AM.

How long will it take for the outfield to dry?

At the Narendra Modi Stadium, only the pitch is covered entirely. Huge chunks of the outfield are left uncovered, leading to water logging. However, according to umpire Nitin Menon, the outfield can be thoroughly dried within an hour after the rain stops.

Win the toss and...?

It may be a good idea to bowl first here, given that the pitch has been under covers for over 24 hours. That will certainly aid the fast bowlers early on. Also, 70% of the wickets this season in Ahmedabad have been picked up by the pacers. However, if the teams sense that there could be a stop-start game, the captain might be tempted to bowl first. 

...And now for the big question

Who wins IPL 2023 if reserve day is washed out?

As harsh as it may sound, Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans will be declared IPL 2023 champions, as they finished above Chennai Super Kings in the league phase. In their 14 matches, GT had secured 20 points, while CSK finished three points behind them at 17. In the future, when there's a debate over the difference between finishing first and second in the IPL points table, this match could be an example.

For more insights, check out Shubh Aggarwal's tactical preview here