Pakistan knocked out of T20 World Cup after USA v Ireland called off in Florida

Weather had the final say as the crucial Group A match of the T20 World Cup between USA and Ireland was called off due to wet outfield and rain in Florida on Friday.

The match was unlikely to go ahead as a tropical disturbance had resulted in floods across the state of Florida. Lauderhill, where the stadium is situated, also received heavy downpour during the week. And even though the rain eased for 36 hours leading up to the match, the damage had been done as the outfield remained wet, rendering it unfit for play.

Despite a relatively clear morning, no play was possible on Friday. The umpires held two sets of inspection as the game was pushed back as far as possible in order to accommodate a five-overs-a-side contest. But later in the day, the rain came back to end any hopes of a match.

USA and Ireland both shared a point each. As a result, co-hosts USA qualified for the Super Eight stage with five points after four games along with India, who won three out of three games.

Babar Azam's Pakistan, therefore, were knocked out of the tournament well before their final group game against Ireland on Sunday.

The fate of Group A is