Storm threat to big Bangladesh v South Africa game

Local forecasters predicted rain and thunderstorms in the capital on Saturday when Bangladesh met South Africa in their must-win World Cup Group B match at Shere Bangla National Stadium.

Early in the day, clouds covered much of the sky above the ground with the wind gusting stronger than normal.

"Gusty winds accompanied by hail and rain could occur, particularly in the afternoon until late on Saturday," Shahidul Islam of Bangladesh Meteorological Department said.

Apart from the importance to the co-hosts, South Africa needed to win the game to retain top spot in the group.

So far, only one match at this World Cup has been abandoned through rain -- Sri Lanka's Group A match with holders Australia on March 5 in the capital Colombo.