Ashes 2023: Rain likely to delay proceedings on blockbuster fifth day

Edgbaston Cricket Ground. (Photo Source: Twitter)

England’s Ashes opener against arch-rivals Australia at Edgbaston headed into the final day after a rollercoaster fourth day. However, rain is expected to play a part on the fifth day, with the weather forecast making for a grim reading. Play is expected to be delayed on the fifth morning, with thunderstorms also forecasted to hit the West Midlands.

The first Test of the Ashes at Edgbaston has lived up to the billing so far as both teams are in with a shout to claim a victory on the final day. While it was the home side who started the fourth day on the front foot after rollicking cameos from Joe Root, Harry Brook and Ben Stokes, Australia wrestled back the momentum with a strong bowling performance in the second session.

Australia continued the momentum in their batting innings as David Warner and Usman Khawaja stitched a valiant 61-run opening stand while chasing England’s 281. However, an inspired bowling spell by Stuart Broad ended the day on a high for the Three Lions, with Australia still needing 174 runs on the final day with seven wickets in hand.

It’s gloomy and rainy in Birmingham as scheduled. The rain though could play as much a part in a potentially epic finish as any other factor on the field #Ashes pic.twitter.com/YSrVnNUYru

— Bharat Sundaresan (@beastieboy07) June 20, 2023

Fair chance of a delayed start. Ashes. pic.twitter.com/1UkBrAzwi4

— Peter Lalor (@plalor) June 20, 2023

Usman Khawaja is the key for Australia

But rain is expected to play a role on the fifth day as a delayed start is on the cards due to the weather forecast in Birmingham. While Australia will be hoping for another decisive innings from a well-set Usman Khawaja, England will be eyeing to replicate their performance at this very venue in 2005.

It is worth noting that nearly 43 overs were lost on the third day due to persistent rain. It would be a tame end to what has been an exciting contest between bat and ball if rain ends up spoiling the fun for an expectant crowd at Edgbaston.