Follow UsIndia are on top of England in the ongoing second Test in Birmingham, with the hosts still needing 536 runs on the fifth day. However, the rain god hasn’t been kind to the visitors, with the start of play on the fifth day being delayed by an hour.
Just when it had seemed like it would clear up, the rain started pouring down heavily again, delaying the start of proceedings on day five of the second Test. Play will start at 5.10 PM IST on day five, with 80 total overs.
What’s the cut-off time before we start losing overs?
We started losing overs at 4.30 PM IST, meaning we will not get the desired 90 overs of play on the fifth day. As it stands, there will be a maximum of 80 overs bowled on day five.
What would be the session timings?
Session 1: 12.40-14.30 (5:10 PM-7 PM)
Lunch: 14.30-15.10 (7 PM-7:40 PM)
Session 2: 15.10-17.10 (7:40 PM-9.40 PM)
Tea: 17.10-17.30 (9.40 PM to 10 PM)
Session 3: 17.30-19.00 (10-11.30 PM)
How many overs are possible on day five of the second Test?
As per the playing conditions, the final session will be extended till 7 PM local time, meaning India will have till 11:30 PM IST to get the remaining seven wickets. Since this is the last day, however, play will go on till 80 overs are bowled on the day, provided light permits. The official 'last hour' of the Test will be signaled by the umpire when 15 overs are left in the day.
What’s the best-case scenario for India?
Rain is already a worst-case scenario for India, and they will hope that it stays away as much as possible. If the weather turns sunny for the remainder of the day, India will get more than enough time and possibly an under-exposed surface to trouble England.
What’s the best-case scenario for England?
Although England don’t want to play for a draw but the conditions in Birmingham might well save their batting unit from a bad loss. The best-case scenario for England would be that the light deteriorates enough for India not to bowl pacers. In that case, only spinners can operate.