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ENG vs IND 2nd Test: Edgbaston pitch report, Birmingham weather forecast
There is growing support for including Kuldeep Yadav in India's playing XI, while it will be interesting to see whether Jofra Archer returns to England's lineup after a four-year absence from the longest format of the game.
However, the final playing XIs for both teams will be decided based on the pitch and prevailing weather conditions.
As both teams gear up for this much-anticipated clash in Birmingham, Business Standard takes a closer look at the pitch and weather outlook.
England vs India 2nd Test: Edgbaston Pitch Report
Over five days of Test cricket, the surface at Edgbaston Cricket Ground is expected to provide an exciting contest between bat and ball. The pitch can offer considerable pace and bounce at the start of the match—especially on Days 1 and 2—staying true to its traditional English character. Top-order batters may find it challenging to handle the pronounced seam movement that fast bowlers are expected to enjoy, particularly in the early sessions if the skies are overcast. The Dukes ball is likely to nip around, increasing the chances of early wickets—more so if clouds linger over the ground.
Batting conditions are expected to improve as the match progresses into Days 3 and 4. If the sun comes out, the surface should flatten, offering genuine and consistent bounce. This will allow batters more freedom to play their shots and build partnerships. By Day 5, however, spinners may come into play as the surface begins to deteriorate. Cracks and rough patches could result in variable bounce and turn.
Average scores at Edgbaston:
1st innings: Around 310
2nd innings: Around 280
3rd innings: 230–250
4th innings: 170–200
Birmingham Weather and Rain Forecast Ahead of the Second Test
Weather predictions are never absolute, as atmospheric factors can sometimes lead to unexpected changes. Nonetheless, here's what the forecast suggests for July 2 to July 5.
According to BBC Weather, there is a chance of rainfall on Day 1 (July 2) before the scheduled start of play at 11 AM local time (3:30 PM IST). However, conditions are expected to improve thereafter, with Birmingham set to offer largely pleasant weather conducive to uninterrupted play.
July 3 (Thursday)
High temperature: 23 degrees Celsius
Low temperature: 10 degrees Celsius
Rain chance: No chance of rainfall
Remarks: Sunny intervals and a gentle breeze
July 4 (Friday)
High temperature: 23 degrees Celsius
Low temperature: 14 degrees Celsius
Rain chance: No chance of rainfall
Remarks: Sunny intervals and a gentle breeze
July 5 (Saturday)
High temperature: 23 degrees Celsius
Low temperature: 13 degrees Celsius
Rain chance: 62 per cent chance of rainfall at 10 AM local time (2:30 PM IST)
Remarks: Light rain and a moderate breeze
July 6 (Sunday)
High temperature: 19 degrees Celsius
Low temperature: 11 degrees Celsius
Rain chance: Light rain chances throughout the day
Remarks: Light rain showers and a moderate breeze
Birmingham weather forecast as per Accuweather According to AccuWeather.com, there is a chance of a thunderstorm on the eve of the IND vs ENG 2nd Test in Birmingham.
Birmingham rain prediction from July 2 to July 6:
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