Persistent rain in Barbados forced the game off between the Proteas and Australia on Sunday.
Just one over was bowled at the Kensington Oval, leaving the sides with two points apiece. It makes for interesting permutations, as Australia must now beat West Indies in their final group match on Tuesday to reach the final. Should West Indies win, the Proteas will be in the final without having to bowl another ball.
It was a frustrating end to skipper AB de Villiers’ 200th ODI in a Proteas shirt, as rain had the final say just like it did in his 100th Test match. On a pitch that appeared more suited to the fast bowlers, they opted to hand Morne Morkel a first game of the tournament at the expense of Tabraiz Shamsi. It was also Wayne Parnell’s 50th ODI. De Villiers lost the toss and was put in to bat first.
Australia made no less than three changes to their side, and one of them was Mitchell Starc, who bowled three wides in his first over before the rain came down. It will be interesting to see if they go for the same side on Tuesday, and the Proteas will keep a keen eye on proceedings, and will no doubt be hoping the Windies win that one, as it will make their final group game against them on Friday no more than an exhibition match as they warm up for the final on 26 June.
Picture: Getty Images
