Bengal's Ranji Trophy match against Kerala is set to proceed as scheduled on Saturday, October 26, at the Jadavpur University Campus 2 ground in Salt Lake, Kolkata. This decision comes despite the Cricket Association of Bengal's (CAB) request to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for a postponement due to the impending Cyclone Dana affecting West Bengal. The BCCI denied the CAB's request, meaning both teams will be required to play under potentially challenging weather conditions.
Cyclone Dana made landfall on the Odisha coast on Friday morning, causing widespread concern throughout the region. While Kolkata has largely been spared from the cyclone's most severe impacts, heavy rainfall has persisted across South Bengal, including the city, since Thursday. This relentless downpour is expected to continue into Saturday, raising questions about the conditions in which the match will be played.
Both Bengal and Kerala faced significant challenges in their previous matches due to the rain. Kerala's encounter against Karnataka saw only one day of play, while Bengal's match against Bihar was abandoned entirely without a ball being bowled. These disruptions have heightened the anticipation for the upcoming clash, as both teams seek to make up for lost opportunities on the field.
The Kerala team has already been in Kolkata for several days, preparing for this crucial match. They will be eager to capitalize on any momentum they can build despite the adverse weather conditions. In contrast, Bengal will be missing three key players—Abhimanyu Easwaran, Mukesh Kumar, and Abhishek Porel—who have traveled to Australia to represent India A. Their absence will be felt, as these players are vital to the team’s success.
With the match approaching, the focus will be on how both teams adapt to the weather conditions and whether they can maintain their form in the face of adversity. The cricketing community will be watching closely, as this match is critical for both Bengal and Kerala in the ongoing Ranji Trophy season. Fans hope for a competitive encounter that showcases the skill and resilience of both teams, regardless of the challenges posed by the weather.
