How many overs need to be bowled for a result in today’s RCB vs CSK IPL 2024 match?

The 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter between the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is underway at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Rain has made its first appearance for the evening, and could have a lasting impression, if the forecast is to be believed.

RCB will have a keen eye on the equations if rain forces a potential reduction in the overs. There is still a long way to go for the last resort, but it is still a predicament that has to be considered.

There is a provision for a minimum of a five-over clash to be conducted if the rain relents after a certain stage, and the groundstaff can prepare the outfield in time. The latter is not expected to take much time courtesy of the world-class drainage system set in place at the venue.

Section 13.7.2.1.2 of the IPL 2024 Playing Conditions Dictate that:

"The revision of the number of overs should ensure, whenever possible, that both teams have the opportunity of batting for the same number of overs. The team batting second shall not bat for a greater number of overs than the first team unless the latter completes its innings in less than its allocated overs. To constitute a match, a minimum of 5 overs have to be bowled to the side batting second, subject to a result not being achieved earlier," the rule mentions.

RCB were cruising along at 31-0 after three overs when rain forced the slight delay.

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RCB's win margin to negate the net run rate remains the same even if the overs are reduced

Even if the match is reduced to five-overs per innings, which is the last resort scenario as mentioned earlier. Since RCB are batting first, they need to win by a margin of 18 runs or above to leapfrog CSK in the net run rate and qualify despite being level on points.

Play has resumed at the Chinnaswamy Stadium with Maheesh Theekshana being introduced into the attack. The score currently reads 35/0 after four overs, and surface has shown early signs of turn.