Persistent rain continued to disrupt the fifth and final T20I between India and West Indies at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday, turning the series decider into a truncated 9-overs-a-side affair.
West Indies won the toss and elected to field. India, led by Shreyas Iyer, got off to a brisk start but lost regular wickets. At the time rain returned and forced the covers back on, India had reached 118 for 5 in 7.4 overs at a run rate of over 15. Naman Dhir was unbeaten on a rapid 24 off just 6 balls.
Officials confirmed that India’s innings had been closed due to the weather. The target for West Indies will be revised depending on the number of overs they are able to face, subject to further play being possible.
The match had already suffered a lengthy delay at the start. Continuous drizzle forced the toss to be postponed, and the contest was eventually reduced to nine overs per side, with a revised powerplay of 2.4 overs. Play eventually began late in the evening.
In team news, India brought back experienced pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar after 1,425 days — his first appearance in Indian colours since November 2022 — along with all-rounder Shivam Dube. The series is locked at 2-2, making this a high-stakes encounter for both sides.
Chinnaswamy Stadium’s advanced drainage system had earlier raised hopes of a full contest, but the rain has so far had the final say. Further updates are awaited on whether West Indies will get the chance to chase.
