Last Updated on 2 weeks by Charbel Coorey
The weather often seems to be a talking point when it comes to the New Years’ Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Fans and pundits were even factoring in the annual rain when making their predictions for this five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series, believing the SCG Test could be the one that ends in a draw.
However, the forecast looks very promising for the 5th and final Test. Australia head into the match with a 2-1 lead courtesy of a win in the final hour at the MCG. Pat Cummins’ team are not only looking to seal the series 3-1, but also book their ticket to June’s World Test Championship (WTC) Final against South Africa.
SCG weather forecast looks promising for 5th Test
According to Bureau of Meterology (bom.gov.au), rain is set to stay away for most of the Test. Cloudy conditions are forecast on day one followed by three consecutive days of sunshine and temperatures around 30 degrees. At this stage, there could be showers on day five [Tuesday].
AccuWeather forecasts similar. There is a 9% chance of precipitation on day one, followed by just 2% on days two, three and four. Day five could be an issue, with the forecast currently reading “very windy; cooler with considerable cloudiness, afternoon showers.”
The weather in Sydney has been fantastic over the Christmas and New Year period. Temperatures have hovered around the late 20s and early 30s with plenty of sunshine. This aids in pitch preparations, allowing the curator to produce the sort of pitch they’re after without the challenges of rain in the leadup.
SCG head curator Adam Lewis said the warm weather heading into the Test has prompted them to water the pitch to ensure the moisture is there.
“Given it [the pitch] a cut about 7mm and giving it a nice roll today [Wednesday],” said Lewis.
“Giving it a little flick of water. It’s very hot in Sydney today, so we’ll just keep the moisture there just at the top and then tomorrow we’ll do a little more heavier rolling. Take a bit of the colour out then we should be ready to go for the 3rd [Friday].”
Hence, the surface could have some assistance for the bowlers early on day one, but should settle down to be a good batting track. Given the sunny conditions throughout the Test, expect the SCG pitch to take turn later in the game as well.
