ENG vs IND: Weather Forecast for Day 1 of Manchester Test

The fourth Test of the ongoing England vs India series is set to begin on 23 July 2025 at Old Trafford, Manchester. Trailing 1-2 in the five-match series, India come into this clash after a heartbreaking 22-run loss at Lord’s in the third Test. With the series on the line, the Manchester Test becomes a must-win for the visitors to keep their hopes alive.

Rain is highly expected on day 1

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However, the weather could play a significant role. According to AccuWeather, Day 1 is expected to be cloudy with a passing shower or two in the afternoon. There’s a 70% chance of precipitation, 14% chance of thunderstorms, and 99% cloud cover is expected. 

These overcast conditions could aid seam and swing, especially with the new ball, which makes the toss and decision to bowl first quite crucial.

Ahead of the match, India have faced multiple injury setbacks. Both Arshdeep Singh and Nitish Kumar Reddy have been ruled out of the remainder of the series. Given the nature of the Old Trafford surface, all eyes will be on whether Kuldeep Yadav, the left-arm wrist spinner, finally gets a chance in the XI. 

Jasprit Bumrah is expected to return, considering the high stakes of this match and the week-long break between games.

Eyes will also be on Karun Nair, who has struggled to capitalise on the opportunities given to him so far in this series. In the three Tests he has played — whether batting at number three or number six — he has managed promising starts, but failed to convert them into big scores. As a result, if he misses out on a spot in the final playing XI, it might not come as a surprise.

Meanwhile, Sai Sudharsan could be given a chance. He made his debut in the series opener but was dropped thereafter.

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England, on the other hand, have confirmed their playing XI, making just one change from their Lord’s win. Shoaib Bashir has been ruled out due to injury, and in his place, Liam Dawson makes a comeback — playing his first Test since 2017, after eight years. 

Meanwhile, Jofra Archer, who starred at Lord’s with his pace and accuracy, will once again be key in Manchester as the conditions are expected to assist fast bowlers.

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