Rain could play spoilsport on Day 1 of the final Test between India and England in Manchester, with forecasts predicting a brief break in showers after 5:00 PM IST, followed by a potential downpour around 8:45 PM IST. A heavily shortened opening day remains a strong possibility.
On the team front, pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is expected to return to action, as confirmed by Mohammed Siraj during the pre-match press conference. Meanwhile, young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has been ruled out due to injury. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, who had sustained a finger injury in the third Test, is expected to resume wicketkeeping duties.
With Reddy out, India faces a few selection decisions. Prasidh Krishna and recently-arrived Anshul Kamboj are in contention for a place in the squad, while Sai Sudharsan is also likely to return to the playing XI.
