Sudden weather in South Africa forced the cancellation of one SA20 league match, while the Under-19 match between India and South Africa was stopped midway through. The umpires took an immediate decision, giving priority to the safety of the players in this situation caused by storm and lightning.
The 11th match of the ongoing SA20 tournament in South Africa was scheduled to take place between Joburg Super Kings and Sunrisers Eastern Cape. The toss was already done for the match, but before the match started, there was an incident of lightning on the field. The umpires decided to call off the match in view of the bad weather forecast and security risk.
The South African team lost four wickets for 148 runs
Also, a similar situation was witnessed during the Under-19 match between India and South Africa. The Indian team was fielding in this match being played at Benoni. At that time the South African team lost four wickets for 148 runs. The umpires immediately stopped the match as lightning flashed around the field.
The umpires informed the captain of the Indian team, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, that it was not safe to continue the match in such conditions. The players of both the teams were then instructed to leave the field and go to a safe place. All the players reached the safe place safely.
31-year-old cricketer David Evans died due to lightning
It may be mentioned that in the past there have been unfortunate accidents on the cricket ground due to lightning. On January 24, 2024, 31-year-old cricketer David Evans was killed by lightning during a domestic match in New South Wales, Australia. When Evans stepped out to bat, lightning struck him directly on his head. The accident left a hole in the field and six to seven other players were also injured.
In view of such incidents, if there is a threat of lightning or severe weather in the field, a decision is taken to stop or cancel the match immediately, so as to ensure the safety of the players and officials.
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