Kolkata Knight Riders are still looking for their first win of the IPL 2026 season, and their wait could continue for reasons beyond cricket. After defeats against Mumbai Indians and Sunrisers Hyderabad, KKR now face the threat of rain ahead of their third match on Monday, April 5.

Led by Ajinkya Rahane, KKR are set to take on last year’s finalists Punjab Kings, captained by Shreyas Iyer. This is an important early-season clash, but attention may increasingly turn to the season, which threatens to play a major role.

What do the forecasts suggest?

According to India Meteorological Department (IMD), there is every possibility of rain during the match window. There is a possibility of another round of Kalbaisakhi storm in this area.

“The state is likely to see another round of Kalbaisakhi storm, with hailstorm and thunderstorm likely from Sunday to Thursday. The intensity and spread of rain is expected to peak on Tuesday and Wednesday,” the IMD said.

“The weather is expected to become more severe on Tuesday, when Kalbaisakhi storm with winds reaching 50-60 kmph, lightning and rain is likely to affect Kolkata and adjoining areas.”

AccuWeather also indicates a risk of disruption, with a 51 per cent chance of rainfall around 6pm IST, just before the toss. This increases the possibility of delays or competition being shortened.

What happens if the game is delayed?

If rain interrupts play, there is a limited time to complete the match. At least five overs of play must be played for a result to be obtained.

The cut-off time for the start of the match is 10:56 PM IST. In that case, the toss will have to take place by 10:46 PM IST. Any delay beyond this would mean that the match would have no result.

Five-over contests are usually fast-paced and unpredictable. Teams are forced to attack from the start, leaving little room for cautious play.

If no game is possible, both sides will share one point each.

KKR’s ruin!

Rain has created problems for Kolkata Knight Riders earlier also. Last season, their home match against Punjab Kings on 26 April was also washed out due to rain. Both the teams are sharing one point each.

Last season, KKR also had a rain-affected match in Bengaluru.Due to which their chances of reaching the playoffs were spoiled. They ultimately finished eighth in the standings, and the points dropped proved costly.

With both form and weather working against them, KKR are hopeful that conditions will improve and they will finally get a chance to open their account this season.

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