In a latest development, inclement weather has delayed the arrival of team GT in Ahmedabad, for Sunday’s final against RCB, as per a report in ESPNCricinfo. That in turn means, that Gujarat will have less than 24 hours to prepare for the IPL 2026, which happens to be their third overall, having lifted the trophy in 2022.
The report further stated that, Gujarat were to depart Chandigarh via a charter flight on Saturday afternoon, which could not happen due to poor weather. GT are now likely to arrive late into the night. Meanwhile, this would be the first time, when a finalist team will travel a day before the summit clash.
On the other hand, RCB arrived at the venue city well in advance, on Wednesday, and has had two training sessions already, that would keep them in good stead. “Yes, because after Qualifier 1 we got enough time to rest and recover. At the same time, GT are coming straight from Qualifier 2,” Patidar told reporters, when asked about early arrival. “There is some sort of advantage, but not a huge one because both teams are very good and have played excellent cricket.”
As far as the weather for the final is concerned, it is expected to remain clear. The probability of precipitation remains only 1% for now, as per AccuWeather. But the weather in general could be aided with some clouds towards the evening, which might help the players eventually.
Gujarat have enjoyed great success at the final venue, Ahmedabad, having won 5 out of 7 encounters, which could work in their favour eventually. The pitch here, unlike other venues in India, might not be 200-producing wicket, and the side batting first should be aiming to be in the bracket of 180-190,
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