The Ashes series moves to the Old Trafford Cricket Ground in Manchester this week for the fourth Test, starting on Wednesday, July 19. England and Australia are evenly matched, with Australia holding a crucial 2-1 lead after winning the first two Tests at Edgbaston and Lords, while England gained momentum with a victory in the third Test at Leeds. England knows that they must win both remaining Tests to have a chance at reclaiming the Ashes from Australia.
Old Trafford Cricket Ground Pitch Report
Traditionally, Old Trafford offers favorable conditions for batting, with a pitch that allows the ball to come onto the bat well. Consequently, teams winning the toss often choose to bat first, and a majority of matches at this venue have been won by the team batting first. The average first innings score is 332, which drops to 270 in the second innings.
However, as the match progresses, the pitch develops footmarks, making it challenging for batters to face spinners in the third and fourth innings. This leads to lower scores, with an average of 225 in the third innings and 168 in the fourth innings. With rain expected on the first day and overcast conditions likely throughout the game, consistent fast bowling could also be rewarded.
Also read: After Headingley heroics, Chris Woakes ‘Desperate’ to play 4th Ashes Test
It is expected that England will make just one change to their lineup for the fourth Test, following their victory in the third Test. Fast bowler Ollie Robinson is expected to be replaced by James Anderson, who was rested in the previous match. While Robinson has confirmed that he has fully recuperated from the back spasms that affected him in the last game, Anderson’s inclusion is favored due to his extensive experience and familiarity with the playing conditions as a local player hailing from Lancashire.
Australia face selection issues in their all-rounder slot and one pace bowling position. Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc are likely to retain their places, leaving a choice between Scott Boland and Josh Hazlewood for the third seamer role. In the batting order, Cameron Green and Mitchell Marsh are competing for a spot after Marsh’s impressive century in the previous Test.
Squads
England: Ben Stokes (c), Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jonny Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Dan Lawrence, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes and Mark Wood.
Australia: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitch Marsh, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jimmy Peirson (wk), Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, David Warner
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