Severe Thunderstorm Cancels T20 World Cup 2024 Warm-Up Match In Dallas

The warm-up match between Bangladesh and the USA, scheduled for May 28 in Dallas, was cancelled due to severe weather conditions. Heavy rain, flood warnings, and a severe thunderstorm forced both teams to remain in their hotel. The adverse weather caused visible damage to the ground at Grand Prairie Stadium, as seen in images circulating on social media.

The WC warm-up game between USA vs Bangladesh was canceled due to rain and thunder in Dallas.

The cricket facilities including the screen were also damaged due to the thunderstorm. Dallas is also at risk of flooding.

Dallas will host 4 World Cup games including the opening… pic.twitter.com/Ig90vW7sTv

Nawaz ???????? (@Rnawaz31888) May 28, 2024

The severe thunderstorm not only led to the cancellation of the match but also caused significant damage to the stadium itself. The storm reportedly damaged a roof and a giant TV screen at the Dallas Stadium, which is slated to host four World Cup matches. This added complication poses challenges for the venue as it prepares for the upcoming tournament.

Rabeed Iman, manager of the Bangladesh team, confirmed the cancellation early in the morning. "This is to confirm that the warm-up match between Bangladesh and the USA at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas today has been cancelled due to the conditions of the facilities following the adverse weather that has affected the area," he stated at 8:54 am local time, according to ESPNcricinfo.

This match was set to be the first warm-up game for both teams as they prepare for the T20 World Cup, which is set to commence on June 1 in the USA and the West Indies. The USA, as co-hosts, are placed in Group A and will kick off their campaign against Canada on June 1 at the same Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas. Bangladesh, meanwhile, will compete in Group D and will begin their tournament against Sri Lanka on June 7, also in Dallas.

The cancellation was a significant setback for both teams, as the match was crucial for understanding the playing conditions at the venue. The teams were looking to gain valuable insights into the nature of the pitch and refine their strategies ahead of the main tournament.

Prior to this warm-up match, USA and Bangladesh faced each other in a three-match T20I series. The hosts triumphed over Bangladesh with a 2-1 series victory, marking their first-ever series win against a full member ICC side. Key performances from players like Harmeet Singh, Ali Khan, and Corey Anderson were instrumental in USA's success, boosting their confidence as they head into the World Cup.

As the T20 World Cup approaches, both teams will have to quickly adapt to conditions and continue their preparations despite this disruption caused by weather. Fans and teams alike are eagerly anticipating the start of the tournament, hoping for better conditions and exciting cricket action.