The highly anticipated Day 4 of the India vs. England Test match in Manchester faces a significant threat of rain, potentially dampening India’s hopes after England’s dominant batting display.
Weather Update: Rain Expected at Old Trafford
Cricket fans hoping for a full day of action at Old Trafford might be disappointed. The UK Met Office predicts a high chance of rain throughout Saturday, particularly affecting the morning and early afternoon sessions.
Forecasters indicate that wet weather will persist, with the highest probability of rainfall peaking around noon. While some light rain is expected to change to overcast conditions later in the morning, the initial hours could see significant interruptions to play.
England’s Command on Day 3
England enters Day 4 in a commanding position, having soared past India’s first-innings total. They ended Day 3 on 544 for seven, holding a significant lead of 186 runs, putting them firmly in contention for a 3-1 series lead.
The highlight of England’s innings was Captain Joe Root’s exceptional performance. He scored his 38th Test century, converting it into a massive 16th 150-plus score of his career. Support also came from Ollie Pope and skipper Ben Stokes, both contributing crucial half-centuries.
India’s Challenging Road Ahead
For India, Day 3 was a tough outing, as their pace attack struggled to make breakthroughs. This marks the first time in a decade that India has conceded a 500-plus total in an overseas Test match.
The team now faces a dual challenge: overcoming England’s substantial lead and potentially batting on a rain-affected pitch. With the possibility of an innings defeat looming, the weather could either offer a reprieve or further complicate their situation.
- Rain is highly likely to disrupt play, especially during the morning session on Day 4.
- England leads India by 186 runs, reaching 544/7 in their first innings.
- Joe Root’s record-breaking 38th Test century anchored England’s dominant batting.
- India conceded over 500 runs in an overseas Test for the first time in ten years.
As the teams prepare for Day 4, all eyes will be on the skies over Manchester, as the weather could heavily influence the outcome of this crucial Test match.
