The Ashes series continues to be the greatest Test rivalry. The first 3 games of the 2023 series saw intense finishes. When it seemed visitors will seal the series by winning the 3rd Test as well, the partnership between Woakes and Wood turned out to be a savior for England. Now the 4th Test in Manchester will again be a must-win game for the hosts. But what are the playing conditions for the upcoming match? Here we are talking about the Emirates Old Trafford Manchester pitch report for ENG vs AUS 4th Test, ground records, and weather forecast during the playing days.
Old Trafford Manchester is one of the oldest Cricket Stadiums in the world. The venue has been hosting Test matches since 1884. The most recent Test match in Old Trafford took place in 2022 between England and South Africa.
Manchester Cricket Stadium Test Records
To date, 84 matches have been played in Old Trafford, Manchester pitch. If we look at past records, the team who chooses to bat first mostly dominates.
- Total matches played: 84
- Matches won by the team batting first: 32
- Matches won by the team batting second: 16
- Matches ended on a draw/no result: 36
- Highest team score in 1st innings: Australia – 656/8 d vs England, 1964
- Highest team score in 2nd innings: England – 611/10 vs Australia, 1964
- Highest team score in 3rd innings: West Indies – 438/7 d vs England, 2000
- Highest team score in 4th innings: Australia – 402 vs England, 1981
- Lowest team score while batting 1st: England – 95 vs Australia, 1884
- Lowest team score while batting 2nd: India – 58 vs England, 1952
- Lowest team score while batting 3rd: Australia – 70 vs England, 1888
- Lowest team score while batting 4th: England – 120 vs Australia, 1902
- Average 1st innings total: 332
- Average 2nd innings total: 270
- Average 3rd innings total: 225
- Average 4th innings total: 168
- Best bowling figures for a spinner: Alf Valentine (WI) – 8/104 vs England, 1950
- Best bowling figures for a pacer: Jim Laker (ENG) – 10/53 vs Australia, 1956
- Highest score by a batsman: Bob Simpson (AUS) – 311(762) vs England, 1964
Old Trafford Manchester Pitch report for Test
Manchester Cricket Stadium’s pitch is known to be good for batting during initial days of the match. The team who bats first mostly wins here because the ball comes nicely on the bat on a fresh wicket. However, as the game progresses, pitch assists bowlers and scoring after 1st innings becomes tough. Interestingly, since 2006, 13 test matches have been played at the venue and only 2 times a score was chased here.
Overcast conditions are predicted during the 4th ENG vs AUS Test. So, the Pacers will be able to move the ball under the clouds. James Anderson who has replaced Ollie Robbinson can get his rhythm back in such conditions. Old Trafford Manchester serves as the home ground for the 40-year-old pacer as he plays domestic cricket for Lancashire.
Manchester Weather during ENG vs AUS 4t Test
According to the Met Office, the weather forecast for the first day at Old Trafford indicates a dry climate accompanied by ample sunlight. However, on the second day, there might be a slight delay in the start of play due to anticipated light showers around 10 AM. Nevertheless, it is anticipated that the game could resume during the early afternoon. Moving on to the third day, Manchester is expected to experience clear weather once again.
ALSO READ: The Ashes 2023 Schedule, Squads and Live Telecast in India
Sunday, the 4th day of ENG vs AUS has the worst-looking weather report as heavy rain is predicted. While the 5th day can be wet and breezy.