ICC World Test Championship 2021-2023 final is set to start between Australia and India at The Oval. Whenever there is a match in England, the eyes are always on the weather as we have seen rain playing a spoilsport on quite a few important occasions in this country. However, for those concerned, there is a reserve day for all this high-profile final.
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Weather in London on the initial three days of the match looks conducive for live action. However, some rainfall is predicted on the last two days. Played a couple of years ago in Southampton, the last WTC final between India and New Zealand was also hampered due to the rain. The first day of the match had been washed out completely. As a result, the reserve day was utilized.
Although the weather looks overcast on Day 1 as well, fans will hope that rain will stay away from the game. This is India’s second final in a row, whereas Australia have reached till here for the first time.
Reserve Day Rules For WTC Final 2023
It is to be noted that ICC (International Cricket Council) have confirmed that June 12 will be used as a reserve day, if required. As per Reserve Day Rules for WTC Final 2023, an additional day will only be used to make up for any loss of playing time due to rain or thunderstorm and not if overs are lost due to slow over rate.
Much like any other Test, 90 overs have to be bowled per day in the final as well. The match days can be extended by half an hour to accommodate the remaining overs as every step will be taken to finish the match within the first five days only.
“A reserve day is in place for the WTC Final on June 12 and can be used to make up for any loss of playing time during the five scheduled days, not to keep playing until one side wins,” ICC has said in its release.
What If WTC Final Ends In A Draw?
Therefore, Reserve day won’t be used to determine a winner. If the match ends on level terms at the end of Day 5, the result will remain intact. In case of a draw, the trophy will be shared by both teams. Just because Australia topped the league table, they won’t be awarded the Test Mace.
