The iconic Old Trafford in Manchester will host the all-important fourth Test of the England vs India series, beginning Wednesday, July 23, 2025. With England leading the five-match series 2-1, this encounter has all the makings of a classic. For India, it’s a battle for survival; for England, it’s a golden chance to seal the series with a game to spare.
India seek redemption after Lord’s heartbreak
India’s campaign has been a paradox — dominant in patches yet unable to convert control into victory. Their batting flourished at Headingley and their bowlers struck in key moments at Lord’s, but lapses in intensity during crunch periods have cost them dearly. With Shubman Gill at the helm, India will be desperate to shake off their inconsistency and stay alive in the series.
The team’s performance will hinge on the top-order’s ability to negotiate the new ball and the bowlers maintaining discipline across long spells. India may also look to tweak their playing XI to suit Manchester’s conditions, possibly bringing in a second spinner or adding experience in the middle order.
England aim to ride Bazball wave to series triumph
England, under Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum, have stuck faithfully to their Bazball approach — attacking, fearless, and opportunistic. While the method has occasionally come under scrutiny, its success is undeniable. The hosts’ bowlers have delivered when it matters most, and contributions from players like Harry Brook, and Ollie Pope have helped tilt matches in England’s favour.
The challenge at Old Trafford will be to stay disciplined with the ball while continuing to attack with the bat. A series win here would not only mark another feather in England’s cap at home but also extend their dominance over India in English conditions.
Also READ: ENG vs IND 2025, 4th Test: Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips and Pitch Report | England vs India
Weather forecast for five days at Old Trafford in Manchester
Day 1 – Wednesday, July 23
Conditions: Sunny intervals with light winds
Temperature: High of 20°C, Low of 13°C
The opening day of the Test match is expected to be the most favorable for cricket. With plenty of sunny spells and minimal cloud cover, fast bowlers might find limited swing early on, but the dry conditions should aid batting. Light winds mean minimal disruption, making it an ideal start to the game.
Day 2 – Thursday, July 24
Conditions: Light clouds and light winds
Temperature: High of 21°C, Low of 11°C
Day 2 will witness slightly overcast skies with light cloud cover, offering a balanced day for both bat and ball. The cooler overnight temperature might help seamers in the first session, especially during the morning moisture phase. However, overall conditions still remain quite good for play with no rain expected.
Day 3 – Friday, July 25
Conditions: Light clouds and gentle breeze
Temperature: High of 22°C, Low of 11°C
The third day should see some warmth return with a high of 22°C. Though clouds will hover, rain is not in the picture. A gentle breeze may help spinners settle into long spells, particularly during the latter stages of the day, as the pitch begins to show signs of wear.
Day 4 – Saturday, July 26
Conditions: Light clouds and gentle breeze
Temperature: High of 20°C, Low of 11°C
Day 4 continues with similar weather, with light clouds and comfortable temperatures. Bowlers, especially spinners, could come into play more prominently as the surface continues to deteriorate. The weather will remain dry, ensuring uninterrupted play.
Day 5 – Sunday, July 27
Conditions: Light rain and gentle breeze
Temperature: High of 20°C, Low of 12°C
The final day may pose challenges as light rain is predicted. While the showers are expected to be intermittent, they could disrupt sessions and lead to loss of playing time. Ground staff might be busy, and the teams will need to stay sharp with possible stop-start conditions.
Also READ: England vs India 2025: Test Stats and Records at the Old Trafford, Manchester
