Australia vs England was unable to play a key T20 World Cup encounter on Friday night (AEDT) due to weather, which forced the umpires to call the game off without a ball being thrown. After a disastrous opening game against New Zealand, the reigning champions bounced back with a strong effort against Sri Lanka on Tuesday.
England started their campaign well, defeating Afghanistan, but suffered the greatest upset of the tournament on Wednesday, losing to Ireland. The previous game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday had been called off due to rain, and it appeared like we were heading in the same direction all night as Aaron Finch, Jos Buttler, and the umpires had several ground inspections.
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The match between New Zealand and Afghanistan was also called off on Wednesday night, making it three straight washouts in Melbourne. New Zealand, England, Ireland, and Australia are presently tied for third place in their group with one victory and one non-result.
Australia vs England T20 World Cup live updates
8.50 pm: Australia vs England, Match is called off. Aaron Finch and Jos Buttler exchange handshakes.
8.40 pm: There is some light rain at the MCG, and the covers are being replaced. The cut-off time for play to start is 9.46 pm local time, so this might be the final nail in the coffin.
8.25 pm: The next inspection will be at 8.50 pm local time – not sure how much will change in 25 minutes, but they’ll give it a shot. Anyone who has ever played quality cricket would understand how irritating this situation would be.
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8.20 p.m.: The umpires are conferring with the captains. Hopefully, we’ll be able to make a choice shortly.
7.40 pm: Umpires have delayed the coin toss and the possible start of play even more. The next inspection will take place at 8:15 p.m. local time. The latest conceivable start time for a five-over-per-side game is 9.46 pm, implying that this may be a long night.
7.25 pm: There are encouraging signals, with the coverings removed and the rain clearing.
7.10 pm: Finally, some good news: the covers are starting to come off at the MCG.
6.30 pm: The toss has been postponed, as expected, and a pitch inspection will take place at 7.30 pm local time. The radar looks encouraging, but there will be a significant delay and fewer overs.