India vs England, 5th Test: Will Weather Spoil Day 1 At The Oval?

England and India are arriving at the Oval for the fifth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar trophy, with the series being 2-1 in England’s favour. The equation is simple: India need to win the Test anyhow to draw even, and England just need a draw at best to emerge winners of the closely contested series. 

However, while the Manchester Test was saved by the English weather’s ire, the same can’t be predicted in advance for the Oval Test, as there’s a decent chance of rain on the first day itself.

According to weather.com, there’s a 77% chance of precipitation on Day 1, with overcast skies and high humidity throughout the day. Afternoon showers are predicted for July 31, which can hamper the second session on Thursday. 

The next two days are much better in that regard, as there is only 12% and 8% chance of rain. However, the temperature will be a bit cold, with the mercury moving between the low 20s and high 10s on most days, a factor that will aid the pacers for sure. Understandably, England have already gone with an all-pace attack, and India are also expected to play an extra seamer. 

Some spells of rain showers are also expected on Days 4 and 5, with 37 and 31% chances of precipitation on both days. If the game moves into Day 5, that can certainly be a factor that both teams would have to consider.