India and New Zealand called off by rain as fourth World Cup match is washed out

Who has been an ultimate winner in the encounter between India and New Zealand? Rain. Which team tops the points table now? Australia? Wrong. India? Wrong. New Zealand? Wrong. It's 'rain' again, with 8 points as the fourth ICC World Cup 2019 gets washed out. The English rain claimed yet another World Cup match after India's group game against 2015 finalists New Zealand was called off without a ball being bowled at Trent Bridge in Nottingham on Thursday. 

A soggy outfield from overnight showers had already delayed the start of the contest between the tournament's only two unbeaten side. Umpires Marais Erasmus and Paul Reiffel carried out almost hourly inspections in intermittent drizzle before finally throwing in the towel in the afternoon.

This was the fourth match to be either called off or abandoned in the rain-hit tournament with many questioning the absence of reserve days for group matches. India is now placed at number three, two below New Zealand, who have played a match extra in the tournament. 

Meanwhile, India will be up against the arch-rival Pakistan on June 16 at Old Trafford in Manchester. With Shikhar Dhawan out of the contention for two weeks, KL Rahul is set to occupy the opening slot. However, this remains to be seen, which player will go onto play at number four as there will be a tough battle between Vijay Shankar and Dinesh Karthik. The selection will make things clear whether India is banking on fresh talent over experienced campaigner or vice-versa. 

HIGHLIGHTS

• Four World Cup 2019 games have been washed out.
• India will play their next league game against Pakistan on June 16. 
• New Zealand currently occupies the top spot with seven points.