The start of the business end of TNPL-10 turned out to be a damp squib as rain played spoilsport in the Qualifier 1 clash between Madurai Panthers and Trichy Grand Cholas. The game was abandoned after two interruptions at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium here on Sunday.

The 2018 champion booked its place in the summit clash to be held on Friday, thanks to its top-of-the-table finish.

Though both sides earned 10 points in the league stage, Panthers had a better Net Run Rate (0.548) compared to Grand Cholas’ 0.095.

In this context, Panthers’ thumping 72-run win over Nellai Royal Kings in its last league match on Saturday helped the B. Anirudh Sita Ram-led outfit leapfrog Grand Cholas in the standings.

Earlier on Sunday evening, the Madurai team opted to field, and only 2.5 overs were possible before rain stopped the proceedings with Grand Cholas at 25 for one.

Play resumed two hours later, and after just two more overs, the heavens opened up again to bring the curtains down for the night.

The scores: Trichy Grand Cholas 49/1 in 4.5 overs (K. Rajkumar 38 n.o.) vs. Madurai Panthers.

Monday’s match (Eliminator): Vida Kovai Kings vs. iDream Tiruppur Tamizhans (7.30 p.m.).