Devine Voices Discontent Over Persistent Scheduling Disruptions Due to Rainouts

Sophie Devine, the captain of New Zealand, voiced her frustration with the World Cup scheduling after their match against Pakistan was abandoned due to rain on Saturday. The game in Colombo saw only 25 overs before rain stopped any further play.

New Zealand had gained the upper hand against Pakistan by sending them to bat and reducing them to 92 for 5 before rain nullified the advantage. With only four points from five matches, New Zealand’s position in the semifinals race is now precarious.

So far, rain has affected six out of 10 matches in Colombo during the World Cup, with four resulting in no outcomes.

“We believed we were in a good position today, but unfortunately, the rain didn’t clear,” Devine said post-match. “It’s immensely frustrating. You wait four years for a World Cup, only for rain to play such a significant role — it’s disheartening.

“Future events could consider earlier start times. We’ve noticed rain typically arrives in the afternoon here, presenting an opportunity to begin games at 10 or 11 AM to ensure play. Every team wants to play cricket. After waiting so long to be here, facing the best only to be stopped by rain is a disappointment for me.”

New Zealand isn’t alone in facing such setbacks. Both Sri Lanka and Pakistan have also seen two of their games washed out. Of Sri Lanka’s five matches, only one hasn’t been rain-affected. Should India defeat England on Sunday, both Pakistan and Sri Lanka risk elimination.

England and Australia each had a game abandoned as well.

The abandonment of Saturday’s game has confirmed South Africa’s semifinal berth, making them the second team, alongside Australia, to qualify. If England wins on Sunday, they will secure the third semifinal spot, leaving New Zealand to compete with India and Bangladesh for the fourth spot.

“We were eager to play today,” Devine remarked. “We were ready for the match and simply wanted to play. But now clearly, we need to win both upcoming games, starting with India in Mumbai.”

“It’s a significant challenge, but we’re thrilled about it. The team needs no extra motivation to take them on. We’re heading back to India tomorrow to prepare for these challenges. We were fully focused on these games in Colombo and wanted to give them our best.

“Fortunately, we have a few days before our game against India, allowing us to prepare well. We’ve had positive experiences against them, even during last year’s World Cup, and we plan to build on those. However, they’re formidable, playing at home in familiar conditions and possessing a strong lineup. But facing such strong teams in their territory is what we strive for, and we’re excited for the challenge.”

After facing India on October 23 in Navi Mumbai, New Zealand will travel to Visakhapatnam for their final league match against England on October 26.