Last Updated on 12 months by Charbel Coorey
Rain has lashed London in recent days, causing flooding to town centres, schools and homes. More rainfall is expected on Friday, casting a cloud over the fourth England-Australia One Day International (ODI) at Lord’s.
Should the game go ahead, the teams will play their first match on this ground since the infamous second Ashes Test of 2023 where Jonny Bairstow was stumped by Alex Carey. The stakes aren’t as high this time around, but getting one over their rivals is always cause for motivation for England and Australia.
ENG vs AUS 4th ODI: Lord’s London weather forecast looks promising for the afternoon
The fourth ODI is scheduled to begin at 12:30pm local time. Google forecasts light rain showers in the morning. BBC also forecasts light rain, mostly in the morning. One thing is for certain – the jackets, jumpers, coats and beanies will be out in force with a top temperature of just 13 degrees. The spotlight will no doubt be on the scheduling once again, with international cricket this late in September in the UK always prone to intervention from the weather.
Reliable app AccuWeather also forecasts a promising afternoon as far as rain is concerned. According to its hourly forecast, showers are expected to fall sporadically up until midday. From there, the chance of precipitation falls to 45% between 12 and 1pm, 30% between 1 and 2pm, and below 10% from 2pm onwards.
The excellent drainage facilities at Lord’s could see the ground be ready for the official start time.
Bowling first could provide big advantage in the 4th ODI
Given the rain in London, the Lord’s pitch would have spent plenty of time under covers. Also, the overcast, damp conditions forecast around 12:30pm makes bowling first a very attractive proposition for the captain who wins the toss.
It was a similar story at Chester-le-Street earlier this week. There was plenty of rain on match eve, which saw regular movement for the England bowlers. Steve Smith in particular had to work hard with both his inside and outside edges under threat.
England went on to win the match with Harry Brook and Will Jacks starring, keeping their hopes alive of a series win. Australia are expected to welcome back Travis Head, while Adam Zampa is also a chance of returning after missing the third ODI due to illness.
The final ODI of the series will be played at Bristol on Sunday.
