Big Bash League: Sydney Sixers vs Melbourne Renegades match called off due to rain

The Big Bash League match between Sydney Sixers and Melbourne Renegades has been abandoned at Coffs Harbour due to rain. It was the clash between the season’s top and bottom-ranked teams in the competition. Sydney Sixers were on top of the table while the Melbourne Renegades were at the bottom. The Renegades had won only one match in the whole Big Bash League season so far. On the other hand, the Sydney Sixers have been in top form, losing only one game and having an NRR worth 1.2.

After winning their first game against Adelaide Strikers by two runs, Melbourne Renegades lost five games before their losing streak was halted by the washout. The win still puts both sides at the top and bottom respectively. But, the Melbourne Renegades have closed in on the Adelaide Strikers in seventh.

No play possible in Big Bash League after toss

Sydney Sixers won the toss and chose to field. But, heading into the match, there was rain and the outfield was not ready. The start was delayed as the groundstaff were draining the excess water from the covers. The main pitch square was covered as the umpires monitored the proceedings.

Read | Coronavirus decimates BBL Schedule

But, just as it looked like the match would begin, the drizzle returned and the covers came back on. The rain did not relent from that point in time. After a wait of two hours, the decision was made to abandon the match due to rain.

Remaining BBL matches in Melbourne?

The coronavirus pandemic has wrecked the cricket world yet again. After the game between Melbourne Stars and Perth Scorchers was postponed, the contest between Adelaide Strikers and Sydney Thunder went ahead despite COVID-19 cases in the Thunder camp. The surge in coronavirus cases has apparently forced Cricket Australia to rethink the hosting in some venues.

According to a Fox News Report, Cricket Australia is pondering holding the remaining league games in Victoria. The state is witnessing a surge in coronavirus but the facilities are immense. There is the MCG, Marvel Stadium, St Kilda Cricket Ground and GHMBA stadiums. Brisbane and Sydney do not have many cricket stadiums while the border restrictions in Western Australia make it logistically impossible.

“With all teams in the same jurisdiction, the schedule could be changed on the run to complete the remaining 33 matches, including finals. One stumbling block would contract with the Gabba, Adelaide Oval, SCG, and Sydney Showgrounds – with tickets already sold for January games – though Cricket Australia could argue the Victorian solution is the only way forward,” the report stated.