The second Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 between India and England at Edgbaston in Birmingham faces a significant threat from inclement weather on Day 4. After three days of compelling cricket, where India has established a strong position, the forecast suggests that rain could play a significant role, potentially disrupting India's momentum.
India currently holds a lead of 244 runs with nine wickets in hand. The team aims to bat through a majority of Day 4 to set England a formidable target in the fourth innings, leaving them a limited number of overs to chase it down. However, the weather forecast presents a challenge to these plans.
According to Accuweather, there is a high probability of precipitation, standing at 84%. The forecast indicates that Birmingham will be mostly cloudy and warm, with a couple of showers expected. Approximately 2.5 hours of rainfall is anticipated, with a 17% chance of thunderstorms. Cloud cover is predicted to be extensive, around 87%.
A more detailed breakdown of the weather suggests a 60% chance of rain in the morning with 99% cloud cover and temperatures reaching a maximum of 22°C. The afternoon is expected to remain cloudy, with a slight reduction in cloud cover, a high temperature of 24°C, and a 60% chance of precipitation. The evening might offer some respite, with the lowest chance of rain at 55%.
Other sources provide slightly varying forecasts. BBC Weather predicts light cloud and moderate breezes, with a lower probability of rain at 7-10%. Google Weather forecasts "light rain" with a 20% probability. Despite the discrepancies, the overall consensus is that rain is likely to interrupt play on Day 4.
The potential for rain could impact India in several ways. Intermittent rain spells could create damp patches on the outfield, affecting play. Overcast conditions may assist the English bowlers, providing them with an advantage in moving the ball. The stop-start nature of the day could disrupt the Indian batsmen's rhythm, making it difficult for them to build a substantial lead. However, wind gusts of around 48 km/h could quickly blow away passing showers, potentially allowing for uninterrupted play.
Despite the gloomy weather predictions, Birmingham has generally been a good batting venue, with a high run rate. Since 2021, the run rate in Birmingham has been 3.8 runs per over, with an average of 31.9. India's batting in the third innings has been particularly strong, with a run rate of 4.1 runs per over and an average of 41.7 in the last 18 months.
As play moves into Day 4, the crucial factor will be how much of the day's play is possible, and whether India can capitalize on their strong position despite the weather.
