The Kolkata Knight Riders: The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) match was delayed after rain came into play at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on Monday.
The drizzle intensified, forcing the umpires to take the players off the field as covers were swiftly brought on. The ground staff acted quickly, laying out sheets across the pitch, square and run-ups, and within moments, the entire playing area was covered.
After the rain, the covers were firmly placed, and the revised timing for the inspection was set for 8:45 PM IST. But the rain continued past the inspection time, and past the 9.52 pm deadline after which overs will be reduced for both teams. This is the first match of the 2026 IPL in which the weather has made such an impact. If the rain relents and the game starts, the overs will be reduced now and the target set as per the DLS Method.