The toss between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Mumbai Indians (MI) in their Indian Premier League (IPL) clash was delayed due to rain here at the Eden Gardens on Saturday.
Heavy rains triggered by a Nor'wester (a storm common in this part of the world at this time of the year) lashed parts of the city four hours before play, pouring cold water on the spectators' enthusiasm ahead of the last league game at the colossal stadium.
There was high demand for tickets ahead of the sought-after tie between KKR and the already-qualified table-toppers with desperate ticket seekers haggling with the black marketeers ahead of the tie.
The covers were on at 7.30 p.m., the regular toss time, and the ground was partly filled as many waited outside the venue or started late from their homes with the storm disrupting normal life in many parts of the city.
The last time an IPL game was cancelled at the Eden Gardens was on April 26, 2015 between Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals.
With a 14-5 record, Mumbai have a formidable win-loss record in their matches against KKR till date. Their 14 wins are the joint-most by a team against any opponent in the IPL.
Mumbai have also won their last four games against KKR. At Eden Gardens, Mumbai have a 5-2 record.
The game on Saturday would determine who bags the number one spot in the points table with Mumbai on 18 from 13 matches and KKR third with 16 from 13 outings.
--IANS
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