Sri Lankan Cricket Team Stranded in Fort Lauderdale Due to Devastating Floods

Sri Lankan Cricket Team Stranded in Fort Lauderdale Amidst Devastating Floods

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, has declared a state of emergency due to life-threatening flash floods that have crippled the city. The torrential downpours have grounded hundreds of flights, including those carrying the Sri Lankan cricket team, which is currently participating in the T20 World Cup.

The team was scheduled to depart from Fort Lauderdale to the Caribbean islands on Wednesday, but the heavy rain and flooding have forced them to delay their departure. The first game in Fort Lauderdale, Sri Lanka vs Nepal, was also washed out due to the inclement weather.

Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida issued the declaration, stating that the rainfall and flooding have significantly impacted critical infrastructure, including major interstates, roadways, airports, and schools.

The Sri Lankan team is expected to fly out on Thursday, but their departure remains uncertain as the flooding continues to affect the city's operations.

Meanwhile, the Central Broward Regional Park in Fort Lauderdale is set to host key games this week, with Pakistan and USA vying for a place in the next round from Group A.

USA will face Ireland on Friday, while Pakistan will take on the same opponents on Sunday. If USA defeats Ireland or the match is washed out, they will join India as the second team from Group A to qualify for the Super 8. This would render Pakistan's game on Sunday irrelevant.

However, if USA loses to Ireland, Pakistan will have a chance to secure their own destiny when they face the Irish on Sunday.

India currently leads Group A with six points from three games, while USA is second with four points. Pakistan's NRR is now better than USA's, meaning they can qualify for the Super Eight stage even if they beat Ireland by a narrow margin on Sunday, provided USA loses to Ireland on Friday.

The flooding in Fort Lauderdale has not only stranded the Sri Lankan team but has also cast doubt on the upcoming matches scheduled to be played in the city. The safety and well-being of the players and spectators remain paramount, and the authorities will continue to monitor the situation and make decisions accordingly.

Tags: #T20WorldCup, #SriLankaCricket, #FortLauderdaleFloods, #CricketNews, #WeatherDisruptions