Cricket is known for its glorious uncertainties, yet rarely has something as simple as dew dictated the course of international matches as dramatically as it has in the current ODI series between India and South Africa. The extraordinary influence of wet outfield conditions has prompted a highly unusual debate: should ODI matches start earlier?
Heavy dewfall in Ranchi and Raipur turned both pitches into batting paradises in the second innings, creating a severe imbalance between teams batting first and teams batting second. India, despite a commanding score of 358 in the second ODI, watched helplessly as South Africa expertly exploited the slippery conditions, chasing with ease.
India’s assistant coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, has suggested that this situation calls for drastic measures. According to him, bringing the start of matches forward by two hours could limit dew’s impact. His argument is simple: if the second innings begins before sunset or early enough, dew may not take over the game entirely.
However, this debate is not purely about weather. India have also been extraordinarily unlucky with the toss. From the start of the 2023 World Cup to the present series, India have lost the toss 20 matches in a row — a statistic that almost defies belief. South Africa have capitalised ruthlessly, choosing to chase both times and utilising the advantage brilliantly.
While South Africa stumbled narrowly in the first match, falling short of India’s towering total of 350, they made no mistakes in the next game. Aiden Markram’s fine century and the entire batting line-up’s disciplined approach saw them chase 359 with composure. The Indian bowlers struggled to grip the wet ball, especially the spinners, who found their fingers slipping each delivery.
With the series set for a grand finale in Visakhapatnam, concerns are mounting. The venue is historically affected by heavy dew — perhaps even more than Ranchi and Raipur. India fear they could again be forced to bat first if they continue their unprecedented run of losing tosses. This would give South Africa a psychological advantage even before the first ball is bowled.
At the press conference ahead of the match, ten Doeschate was candid. He explained, “Dew begins early in some venues and can dominate the whole second innings. If we start two hours earlier, maybe the effect will lessen. But realistically, this is a dead-end discussion. Broadcasters, logistics, and regulations make it difficult.”
He further emphasised the fundamental challenge faced by modern limited-overs cricket. “The difference between batting first and second has widened. Dew is not just a factor; it’s a decisive competitive imbalance. We can’t blame anyone. We just need solutions.”
The series decider is no longer just a cricket contest; it is a clash against nature, timing, and strategic adaptation. Whether cricket authorities take India’s concerns seriously remains to be seen, but one fact is clear: dew is changing matches more than tactics.