Rain played spoilsport on Day 1 of the third Test between India and Australia at the GABBA in Brisbane. There was a forecast of rain and it proved true. Only 13.2 overs were possible in the first session before rain stopped play. The remainder of the first session and the post-lunch session were washed out as rain refused to relent. Puddles were formed on the ground, quashing hopes of any play on Day 1. While an official confirmation is awaited, the current condition doesn't look promising and a washout on Day 1 looks inevitable. This was after India won the toss and opted to bowl. The wicket didn't offer much to the Indian pacers in the first hour as Australia cruised to 28/0 before rain interruption.

Test matches these days hardly last five days so there is a high chance that the lost time won't make much of a difference. The forecast for the remainder of the Test match is significantly brighter, with less than 20 percent chance of rain on Day 2. There is rain predicted on Days 3, 4, and 5 as well but it's unlikely it will washout full days like Day 1.

How Can Rain Impact India's WTC Prospects?

If rain plays spoilsport and the match is washed out or ends in a draw, India's WTC chances will take a hit. India need a 4-1 win to qualify for the WTC final. If the match ends in a draw, India and Australia will get four points each. India will then have to win the remaining Tests at all cost to end the series with a scoreline of 3-1, however, both South Africa and Australia would have a chance to leapfrog India. India will then need Sri Lanka to secure at least a draw against Australia at home to stay alive in the WTC final race.

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