Skippers Finch and Buttler disappointed after rain plays spoilsport at MCG

Aaron Finch and Jos Buttler

The crucial T20 World Cup clash between old rivals Australia and England was on Friday called off without a ball being bowled due to intermittent rain, making the race to semi-finals tougher for the two top teams. After the Afghanistan-Ireland game in the afternoon was washed out at the MCG, it was a double whammy for the crowd as weather played spoilsport again.

Also Read: Rain delays Ireland-Afghanistan Super 12 tie

Only two teams each from the two groups qualify for the semi-finals. After two rained out games on Friday, England found themselves in the number two spot after sharing a point with Australia. Title favourites England had suffered a shock loss to Ireland in Super 12s. Australia too have three points from as many games after losing their tournament opener to New Zealand. They are fourth in the group with the worst run rate among four teams locked on three points. New Zealand lead the group and Ireland are second.

"That's the wettest I've ever seen in this stadium. The run-ups were a real issue and around the inner circle, it was very wet. It's more about players' safety. Everyone was ready to play, there was a great turn-out, disappointing not to get on," said Australia skipper Aaron Finch. England skipper Jos Buttler too expressed disappointment after the second no show of the day. "It was supposed to be a massive occasion, full house here against Australia, biggest game of your career, very disappointed not to be able to play tonight. But full focus on our next match."

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