Persistent rain in Cardiff led to the abandonment of the third T20I between England and Pakistan, marking the second washout in the series. This leaves both teams lacking match practice as they prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The series has seen only 39.2 overs bowled out of the planned 120. England’s captain, Jos Buttler, was absent, with Moeen Ali set to lead in his stead. Buttler had left for London after a win in Birmingham to be with his wife, who is expecting their third child.
England and Pakistan’s Prep Hindered by Weather and Scheduling
Mark Wood was set to play his first match for England since early March, alongside Sam Curran, who missed out last Saturday at Edgbaston. ESPNcricinfo reports that Jofra Archer was to be rested as England manages his return carefully after a lengthy injury break.
Jos Buttler is expected to join the England squad in Barbados this Friday and may play in the series finale at The Oval on Thursday. However, the weather forecast for south London looks uncertain, potentially allowing only a shortened game.
Both teams, missing a warm-up match between Thursday and their World Cup group-stage openers, remain relatively underprepared. In contrast, Pakistan has maintained form, drawing with New Zealand and defeating Ireland in recent T20Is. England’s last T20I was on December 21.
Rain affected play significantly in Cardiff on Tuesday. Persistent showers caused multiple delays, leading to the eventual cancellation of the match at 8.12pm, frustrating the capacity crowd.
