The second Test match between India and England at Edgbaston is under threat of a delayed start due to inclement weather conditions. As fans eagerly await the action, the weather forecast suggests a high probability of rain, potentially disrupting the toss and the commencement of play on Day 1.
According to reports, there's an 81% chance of rainfall in Edgbaston on Wednesday, along with a 23% probability of thunderstorms. The weather is predicted to be cloudy in Edgbaston, raising concerns about a delayed toss. While the chance of rainfall decreases to 40% by 11 AM local time, the forecast indicates that the day could still be marred by rain. The BBC reports rain is expected between 9 AM and 10 AM local time, which could delay the toss if the rain is heavy. Showers are also expected around 7 PM local time, increasing the possibility of a fragmented opening day.
The cloudy conditions and the presence of grass on the pitch are expected to favor seam bowlers on the opening day. Historically, teams that have opted to bowl first at Edgbaston have had a significant advantage, winning 23 out of 56 Tests at the venue. However, the pitch tends to ease out on Days 2 and 3, offering better bounce and allowing batsmen to settle in.
India will be looking to bounce back after losing the series opener and level the series. However, they will have to overcome their poor record at Edgbaston, where they are yet to win a Test match. India has lost seven and drawn one of their eight previous Tests at the venue. Meanwhile, England will aim to continue their winning momentum and secure a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. England has already named an unchanged XI for the second Test.
India faces a selection dilemma, particularly regarding their bowling attack. While Jasprit Bumrah's availability was uncertain, he is now available for selection. The team is considering fielding two spinners on the dry pitch, potentially including Kuldeep Yadav or Washington Sundar alongside Ravindra Jadeja. The decision will depend on balancing attacking options and batting depth.
Joe Root is on the verge of achieving milestones in this Test match. He needs 73 runs to become the first batsman to score 3,000 runs against India in Test cricket. Additionally, he requires 80 runs to become the first-ever batsman to score 1,000 Test runs at Edgbaston. Root is already the highest run-scorer at the venue, with 920 runs in nine Tests at an average of 70.76.
The second Test at Edgbaston is crucial for both India and England. India needs a win to level the series and gain valuable World Test Championship points. England, on the other hand, will be looking to extend their lead and solidify their position. However, the weather conditions could play a significant role in determining the outcome of the match.
