Lagatar24 Desk
Brisbane: Cricket Australia (CA) is facing an estimated loss of over AUD 1 million (approximately ₹5.4 crore) after heavy rain washed out most of Day 1 of the third Test between India and Australia at the Gabba. With only 13.2 overs of play possible on Saturday, CA is required to refund ticket holders as per its policy, which mandates a minimum of 15 overs to avoid refunds.
Fans were left disappointed as the highly anticipated sellout day saw just a brief spell of cricket before relentless rain forced an early end to proceedings. The rule, which would have saved CA from refund obligations, missed the mark by just 10 deliveries.
Downpour Dampens Cricketing Spirit
The day began with a packed Gabba stadium, accommodating 30,145 eager fans who had purchased tickets for the clash. However, their excitement quickly turned to frustration as a torrential downpour dumped nearly 40mm of rain within an hour, leaving the ground waterlogged and unplayable.
News.com.au reported, “The first day of the Test match was declared a sellout, with 30,145 fans given as the official attendance. But they were subjected to a largely miserable day.”
A Million-Dollar Setback
The rain-induced disruption has led to a significant financial hit for Cricket Australia, with over AUD 1 million being refunded to ticket buyers. This highlights the heavy reliance of sporting bodies on uninterrupted matches to maintain financial stability.
Fans are now hoping for uninterrupted action on the remaining days of the match, while CA reflects on the challenges weather can pose to high-stakes cricket fixtures.
