Kolkata Knight Riders are still searching for their first win of the IPL 2026 season, and their wait could continue for reasons beyond cricket. After defeats against Mumbai Indians and Sunrisers Hyderabad, KKR now face the threat of rain ahead of their third match on Monday, April 5.
Led by Ajinkya Rahane, KKR are set to take on last year’s finalists Punjab Kings, captained by Shreyas Iyer. It is an important early-season clash, but the focus could shift quickly to the weather, which threatens to play a major role.
WHAT DO THE FORECASTS SUGGEST?
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), there is a high chance of rain during the match window. The region is expected to experience another spell of Kalbaishakhi storms.
“The state is likely to witness another round of Kalbaishakhi storms, with the possibility of hail and thunderstorms from Sunday through Thursday. The intensity and spread of rainfall are expected to peak on Tuesday and Wednesday,” the IMD said.
“The weather is expected to turn more severe on Tuesday, when Kalbaishakhi storms accompanied by winds of 50-60 kmph, lightning and rain are likely to impact Kolkata and adjoining areas.”
AccuWeather also indicates a risk of disruption, with a 51 per cent chance of precipitation around 6 PM IST, just before the toss. This increases the likelihood of delays or a shortened contest.
WHAT HAPPENS IF THE GAME IS DELAYED?
If rain interrupts play, there is a limited window to complete the match. For a result, at least a five-overs-a-side game must be played.
The cut-off time for the match to begin is 10:56 PM IST. The toss, in that case, would need to take place by 10:46 PM IST. Any delay beyond that would mean the match cannot produce a result.
A five-over contest is usually fast-paced and unpredictable. Teams are forced to attack from the start, leaving little room for cautious play.
If no play is possible, both sides will share one point each.
KKR’S WASHOUT WOES
Rain has caused problems for the Kolkata Knight Riders in the past as well. Their corresponding home fixture against Punjab Kings last season on April 26 was also washed out, with both teams sharing a point each.
KKR also had a rain-affected game in Bengaluru last seasonwhich hurt their chances of reaching the playoffs. They eventually finished eighth in the standings, with those dropped points proving costly.
With form and weather both working against them, KKR will be hoping conditions improve, and they finally get a chance to open their account this season.
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