3rd Test, Day 1

3rd Test, Day 1: Play Called Off Due to Rain

MOHALI: Elements had the final say as the first day of the third cricket Test between India and Australia here was called off without a ball being bowled, thanks to a heavy downpour that lashed the city since early morning.

Play was officially called off at about 13.15 local time, even as a buoyant India's march to achieving their best-ever result in a Test series against Australia came to a halt, though due to matters not related to cricket.

The pitch and the square were covered, and the toss was yet to take place when PCA joint secretary G S Walia made the official announcement.

The Meteorological Department, however, forecast a rainless day on Friday.

"We are expecting the weather to be somewhat cloudy but hopeful of a rainless day," Chandigarh's Meteorological Department Director, Surinder Paul said.

The Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) Joint Secretary, G S Walia informed that the match would start half an hour early from tomorrow to make up for the loss of play on Thursday.

India, who have never won more than two Tests in a single series against the team from Down Under, are leading the four-match rubber 2-0 after convincing victories in the last two outings in Chennai and Hyderabad.

The hosts have never been in such an enviable position against Australia.

Given Australia's meek surrenders in both Chennai and Hyderabad, there is a high possibility of visitors being whitewashed by the hosts, who have so far been confidence personified under the leadership of Mahendra Singh Dhoni.

The weather Gods, however, could again come in the way of what Dhoni and his men would love to achieve, especially against an opponent who had thrashed them the last time they crossed swords, albeit in Australia. There might be some rain tomorrow as well.

Earlier, the Indian team returned to the hotel after spending some time at the stadium, even as the Australians enjoyed a morning cup of tea after the outfield was rendered wet due to incessant rain.

A few from the Australian camp, including coach Mickey Arthur, were seen hovering around and having a jovial chat on the sidelines.