Ahmedabad, June 1 (UNI) A full 20-over game remains possible if play gets underway by 2130 hrs local time, even as persistent rain delayed the start of the IPL 2025 Qualifier-2 between Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday evening.

Punjab won the toss and opted to bowl first, but just as the players were preparing to take the field at 1930 hrs, a fresh spell of rain returned to halt proceedings. The ground staff were quick to cover the square, initially using partial covers in anticipation of a brief delay. However, by 1937 hrs, the rain intensified into a steady downpour, forcing full covers over the pitch and surrounding areas.

Players, who had briefly emerged from the dugout, retreated to their dressing rooms as match officials turned their focus to the weather radar and the ticking clock.

According to IPL regulations, a full match can commence as late as 2130 hrs without any reduction in overs. Importantly, if the game is abandoned due to weather and no result is possible, Punjab Kings will progress to the final of IPL 2025 by virtue of their higher finish on the points table.

With that in mind, Mumbai will be hoping for a window of clear skies, while PBKS fans may have one eye on the clouds and the other on the clock.

Match officials remain hopeful of resumption, but with conditions still wet and steady rain continuing, the fate of this crucial knockout clash hangs in the balance.

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