Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: All eyes will be on the weather as Rajasthan Royals host Mumbai Indians in Match 13 of IPL 2026 at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, with rain threatening to disrupt proceedings. The day is expected to begin under mostly cloudy skies, with light morning showers followed by thunderstorms in parts during the afternoon. The rain threat peaks between 2 pm and 4 pm, with nearly a 55% chance of precipitation. However, there is encouraging news for fans, as conditions are forecast to improve steadily by evening. The rain probability drops to around 21% by 6 pm and further to just 6% by toss time, with clearer skies expected later in the night.What if rain interrupts play?Despite improving evening conditions, any delay could significantly impact the match. As per IPL playing conditions, a minimum five-overs-a-side contest can only be staged if play begins by 10:56 pm, with the toss needing to take place by 10:46 pm.A shortened five-over contest often turns into a high-octane shootout, where power-hitting becomes the decisive factor. However, if rain persists beyond the cut-off, the match will be abandoned, with both teams sharing a point each — a scenario no side would want this early in the tournament.Fresh reminder from Eden washoutThe first rain-hit game of IPL 2026 came just a day ago, when Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings were forced to split points at Eden Gardens.KKR were struggling at 25/2 after 3.4 overs when rain halted play, and despite a brief window later in the night, conditions did not allow even a five-over contest. The washout underlined how narrow the window can be once weather intervenes.High-stakes clash on the cardsIf the weather holds, fans can expect an intriguing contest. RR, led by Riyan Parag, have been in impressive form, with Yashasvi Jaiswal and young Vaibhav Sooryavanshi providing explosive starts.MI, meanwhile, will hope for the return of skipper Hardik Pandya, whose absence was felt in their previous defeat. With Jasprit Bumrah yet to hit peak rhythm and the bowling unit under pressure, MI will need a strong response.With Rajasthan riding momentum and Mumbai eager to bounce back, the contest promises plenty — if the rain stays away.
