India vs South Africa, Women's World Cup Final: Toss Delayed Due To Rain

The toss for the Women's ODI World Cup final between India and South Africa at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy has been delayed because of rain. A drizzle started around noon, forcing the ground staff to spread the covers and ensure that the players stayed inside the dugout and did not come out for their pre-match warm-up routines. However, conditions brightened around 2:00 PM, 30 minutes before the originally scheduled time for the toss, when the rain stopped and the sun appeared briefly. A big cheer went up as the ground staff began removing the covers for an inspection by the umpires, as there were areas beyond the circle with puddles visible from afar.

The players are now out on the ground doing their warm-up routines while the ground staff tend to the wet patches.

The rain, which had been falling intermittently since early morning in Navi Mumbai and the adjacent Thane and Mumbai districts, seems to have had little effect on the enthusiasm of the spectators, as huge crowds have gathered outside the stadium for the final.

The Indian women's team is playing the World Cup final at home for the first time, and the excitement is palpable. Their majestic performance against the dethroned champions, Australia, in the semifinal has further fuelled interest in the match, leading to a huge surge in demand for tickets.

The rain has not dampened the enthusiasm and spirit of the people, and the stadium is expected to break all previous attendance records.

Both India and South Africa are aiming for a historic title triumph, having never won the trophy before. India have a slight edge, having played in the final twice (2005 and 2017), and will also be boosted by the support of the huge crowd. They have already played three matches at this venue, while South Africa are in Navi Mumbai for the first time this World Cup.

The good news for fans is that the match does have a reserve day, and play will resume from where it was halted. However, the ICC will make every effort to complete the game on Sunday itself—even if it is shortened.

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