Bad weather puts off India-Lebanon match

Chennai, Oct 28: The only action that could be managed at the rain soaked turf of the Nehru stadium was, when the referees kicked the ball or rather tried to do so near the half line, to ascertain whether the world cup qualifiying home match between India and Lebanon for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, needs to be postponed.

Half-an-hour later, Match Commissioner Rendeni Gamini of Sri Lanka told newspersons that because of the incessant rains and the inclement weather, play could not be held and the match would have to be postponed to tomorrow, as per FIFA rules.

He said if the match was impossible on tomorrow also, it would be decided in consultation with FIFA whether the match has to be played the next day, October 30, or the venue shifted.

He said both the teams had agreed to this.

Tamil Nadu Football Association President C R Viswanathan said there was no sale of tickets today as it was clear much before the match that play would not be possible.

India were looking for a win on home turf, after having lost the away match at Beirut 1-4.

UNI