Colombo’s weather is poised to dominate internet searches in the coming days. With relentless rain drenching Sri Lanka’s capital city, the fate of the India vs Pakistan (IND vs PAK) showdown hangs in the balance. While the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) opted to keep the Asia Cup 2023 in Colombo, Sri Lanka Cricket is prepared with contingency plans, with Pallekele and Hambantota standing by as alternatives.

Godfrey Dabrera, the national curator of Sri Lanka Cricket, stated, “We prepared all three grounds for the whole tournament. But the first part was in Kandy, and the second part is scheduled in Colombo. Even though we have an additional ground in Hambantota, ACC has decided to play here. But in time, we can shift there also.”

Until Tuesday, the venue in Sri Lanka remained uncertain. While ACC initially informed participating teams that the Asia Cup Super 4 and final would be held in Hambantota, this decision was later retracted. By Tuesday evening, ACC confirmed that the matches would remain in Colombo, a decision officially endorsed on Thursday.

As the Colombo leg of the tournament begins on Saturday, Thursday’s outlook appears bleak. Continuous rain has plagued the city, resulting in waterlogging in various areas and warnings of flash floods. Weather forecasts indicate an 80-90% chance of daily rain for the next week. On Sunday, the day of the India vs Pakistan match, the forecast indicates a 95% chance of rain.

Another washout in the India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2023 clash would add significant pressure to Jay Shah, ACC president. It is worth noting that Jay Shah and the BCCI played a pivotal role in moving the Asia Cup 2023 out of Pakistan, with Sri Lanka securing the hosting rights for key matches, including the final and the IND vs PAK games.