The blockbuster India-Pakistan T20 World Cup Group A contest on Sunday is set for a fever-pitch atmosphere at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo -- but dark clouds and rain threats have become the newest headline.

With the match scheduled for 7:00pm local starting time on Sunday, meteorologists have flagged a strong possibility of rain and thunderstorms in Colombo, owing to a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal.

Forecast models suggest periods of scattered heavy showers in the afternoon and early evening, which could delay the toss or force a shortened game under the Duckworth-Lewis method. Even if rain clears before play, lingering damp conditions could still impact tactics and pitch behaviour.

There is no reserve day for this group match in the T20 World Cup, meaning if rain prevents a minimum five-over contest, both teams will share a point.

Stadium officials remain hopeful as the venue’s drainage and full ground covers are among the best in the region, typically getting a washed-out field ready within about an hour after heavy rain stops.

As fans fill hotels and airfare soars in anticipation of this historic rivalry, all eyes are now not just on the pitch -- but on the skies above Colombo.