Qualifier 2: MI batters take charge after delayed start

FOR a couple of hours, it felt like the clock had turned back to 2023. The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad hosted the 2023 Indian Premier League final between Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans. An unexpected storm led to heavy showers. The summit clash went into the reserve day, which also saw significant rain. By the time the winners were decided in a last-ball thriller (reduced match), the T20 game, which started on Sunday, had entered Tuesday.

- GOMESH S @ Ahmedabad

So, when play was delayed after Punjab Kings won the toss and opted to bowl against Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2 on Sunday, the 2023 final would have flashed in front of everyone's eyes at the venue. Unlike two years ago, it was not steady showers. Intermittent drizzles meant the play could not be started. At one point, the flamethrowers went off, players ran onto the field only to head back because of the drizzle.