Rain threat to T20 World Cup Super Eight - what happens if there is a washout?

This year's T20 World Cup has delivered more than its fair share of surprises. The early exits of Pakistan and New Zealand, commendable performances from USA and Scotland, and low-scoring games on bowler friendly surfaces have made it a tournament to remember, despite matches being played at odd hours of the day.

What has also impacted the state of play is the weather – first in the US and now in the Caribbean.

Since it is rainy season in that part of the world, bad weather was always going to rear its ugly head at some stage. And since many venues there don't have advanced ground coverage or aeration systems, the tournament remains at the mercy of the elements.

Already four matches have been abandoned due to rain or wet outfields. Other have been reduced due to wet conditions. Since the stakes are even higher in the Super Eight stage, any interruption due to bad weather will have even greater implications.

The remaining Super Eight matches will be held at four venues – Bridgetown (Barbados), North Sound (Antigua), Gros Islet (St Lucia) and Kingstown (St Vincent).

Already the weather has played a part in affecting matches. Australia's game against Bangladesh at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, was hit by two rain delays. The second rain delay ended the match with Australia on 100 for two in reply, 28 ahead of the required DLS target after Bangladesh managed 140 for eight in their twenty overs.

The forecast over the next few days is also grim.

Barbados is expected to receive rain from Saturday right into the following week. The forecast for St Vincent is for rain from Saturday until Tuesday, while Gros Islet is also set to be lashed by rain from Saturday and into the next week. Antigua is the only venue