Date:22/09/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/09/22/stories/2007092262101700.htm

Sport - Cricket

No play on third day too

Special Correspondent

DHARAMSHALA: Heavy rain on Friday has almost ended any chance of resumption of play in the second India ‘A’-South Africa ‘A’ Test match at the HPCA Stadium here.

As things stand after two successive rained off days, India ‘A’ is set to wrap up the two-match series 1-0. For the record, South Africa reached 264 for four in its first innings at stumps on the opening day on Wednesday.

A brief spell of rain in the early hours of Friday forced a delay of play before a downpour flooded the outfield. Umpires S. K. Tarapore and Pratap Kumar had no choice but to call of play on the third day.

Strong winds blew away part of the covers around the ‘square’ and undid some of the hardwork done by the tireless groundstaff here.

Coach Paras Mhambrey, skipper Mohammad Kaif and opener Cheteswar Pujara came to the ground while the other members of the India ’A’ team stayed away from he venue.

On the other hand, the South African squad turned up in time but returned disappointed. The absence of sunshine and the possibility of more rain have left the teams waiting for the match to be called off officially on Saturday.