Rain Forces Gujarat Titans’ IPL 2024 Exit in Clash Against Kolkata Knight Riders
The hopes of Gujarat Titans to secure a spot in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 playoffs were shattered when rain intervened and washed out their crucial match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The match, which was a must-win for Gujarat Titans, was abandoned without a single ball being bowled due to incessant rain at the venue.
With this washout, Kolkata Knight Riders secured a top-two finish in the IPL standings with 19 points from 13 games, guaranteeing them a place in the Qualifier 1. On the other hand, Gujarat Titans, the runners-up from the previous season and champions of 2022, found themselves eliminated from the playoff race after managing only 11 points from 13 matches.
The scheduled toss at 7 pm did not take place as planned due to continuous lightning, followed by a light drizzle that intensified over time. Despite the possibility of a truncated game with a cut-off time set at 10:56 PM for a five-over contest, the match officials decided to abandon the game due to the worsening weather conditions and a wet outfield.
KKR opener Phil Salt emphasized the team’s focus on maintaining momentum and securing victories, as directed by their captain Gautam Gambhir. KKR had already secured their playoff berth by defeating Mumbai Indians in their previous match.
As the IPL standings currently stand, Rajasthan Royals occupy the second position with 16 points from 12 games, followed by defending champions Chennai Super Kings in third place with 14 points from 13 matches. Sunrisers Hyderabad and Royal Challengers Bangalore occupy the fourth and fifth spots respectively, with 14 and 12 points each.
Meanwhile, Lucknow Super Giants remain in contention for a playoff spot with 12 points from as many games, while Delhi Capitals find themselves virtually out of the reckoning with 12 points from 13 matches.
