Cricket fans around the world are eagerly waiting for the India vs south africa ICC Women’s world cup 2025 Final, set to take place on Sunday, november 2, at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.
But with dark clouds hovering and rain already delaying proceedings, many are asking the big question — What happens if rain completely washes out the final?
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the reserve day rules, DLS method, and what determines the winner if weather continues to interrupt the match.
🏏 Rain Threat Looms Over world cup Final
Heavy rain showers in Navi mumbai have already caused concern among fans and officials.
Although organizers are prepared for short interruptions, persistent rain could disrupt play — or even prevent a full match.
To ensure the final produces a fair result, the ICC (International cricket Council) has already set clear rain and reserve day rules for the tournament.
🗓️ Rule 1: There Is a Reserve Day
If rain prevents the match from finishing today (Sunday, november 2), it will resume on the reserve day, i.e. Monday, november 3, 2025.
· Play will continue from where it stopped, not restart from scratch.
· All match conditions (overs, wickets, etc.) will carry forward to the next day.
· If at least 20 overs per side are not possible on the main day, the match will automatically shift to the reserve day.
This ensures both teams get a fair chance to compete for the trophy.
⏱️ Rule 2: Minimum Overs Required for a Valid Result
According to ICC rules for ODI finals, a minimum of 20 overs per team must be completed to produce a valid result.
If weather interruptions allow fewer than 20 overs per side, the game cannot yield a result and will move to the next day or be declared a washout if both days are affected.
☔ Rule 3: What If Rain Interrupts Both Days?
If rain washes out play on both november 2 and 3, and no minimum overs are possible, the match will be declared “No Result.”
In such a scenario, the Women’s world cup 2025 trophy will be awarded based on the team’s standings in the Super Six stage.
That means:
🏆 India Women — who finished higher on the points table — will be declared the world cup winners.
📊 Rule 4: DLS (Duckworth-Lewis-Stern) Method
If the match begins but rain interrupts midway, the DLS method will come into play to calculate revised targets.
· If india bats first and rain cuts short South Africa’s innings, DLS will adjust the target based on overs and wickets left.
· If south africa bats first and india chases, DLS will revise India’s target accordingly.
· The DLS method ensures fairness even in shortened games.
🏟️ Rule 5: Match Timing and Overs Adjustment
If play resumes after long rain breaks:
· The match officials can reduce overs to ensure a result (e.g., a 30-over or 25-over match).
· If there’s further delay, super overs or tie-breaking rules may apply only if a DLS-adjusted tie occurs.
🌈 What Fans Should Know
· Gates will remain open on the reserve day; match tickets from sunday will be valid for Monday.
· Broadcasters and ICC will release updated timings if the match moves to november 3.
· Live coverage will continue on Star sports Network and Disney+ Hotstar.
💬 Final Word: Hope For Clear Skies
While rain has already dampened the start of the Women’s world cup 2025 final, fans are hopeful for at least a shortened match.
With both India and South Africa chasing their first-ever title, even a few overs of play could deliver high drama.
If nature permits, the cricketing world could witness a new champion crowned tonight — but if not, the rules ensure India holds the upper hand based on their superior tournament performance.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
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