The weather in Birmingham could be their biggest challenge. With the expected rain during the key phases of the game, especially on 1, 4 and 5, both teams will have to be sharp with time management and tactical decisions. The worthy could prove to be decisive under a heavy cloud, and early movement could lean balance in favor of the pitch-up-out-of-contrast to the conditions friendly to the headingley dough.
With such a probable pattern of Stop-Start, it could be difficult to find a rhythm, especially for pitchers who want to build pressure or dough trying to settle. The captains may need to re -evaluate their approach: control the workload of the pitch, remain aggressive with statements, or even relocate the batting commands to adapt to the abbreviated sessions. Every dry hour will be golden and any party adapts faster to the unpredictability of the weather that could steal the edge. Expect urgency, risking and maybe a few bold movements when both teams race not only against each other, but also hours and clouds.
