Manchester, July 14: As the fourth Test between England and India approaches, all eyes are on the pitch at Old Trafford—traditionally one of the more balanced surfaces in England.
According to early assessments, the pitch is expected to follow its usual pattern: favourable for batting in the early stages, before gradually turning into a more demanding track for batters as the match wears on.Historically, Old Trafford has provided good value for top-order batsmen during the first couple of days. The average first-innings score at the venue hovers around 332, making it an appealing prospect for teams winning the toss. However, with each passing session, the surface tends to deteriorate—especially by the fourth and fifth days—offering more grip and turn for spinners and scuff marks that complicate shot-making.As per data from Sporting News, the second innings sees a dip in scoring, with an average total of 270, which drops further to 225 and 168 in the third and fourth innings respectively. This underlines how crucial the first innings could be in shaping the outcome of the Test.Seamers could also play a vital role early in the match, especially if overhead conditions favour swing. The Dukes ball, known for its durability and movement, is likely to pose problems for batters during such periods. However, as the English summer nears its end, a drier pitch could offer substantial assistance to spinners in the later stages, as noted by OneCricket.In short, fans can expect a classic English Test wicket at Old Trafford—one that offers something for everyone: runs up front, swing under clouds, and turn as the match unfolds. The team that adapts quicker to these evolving conditions will likely hold the upper hand in this crucial Test of the series. (Agencies)
