While the forecast predicts showers at around 12 noon local time and cloudy weather for the rest of the day, chances of rainfall hampering play are supposed to be minimal. 

HIGHLIGHTS

• The UK Met Office’s forecast predicts minimal rain in Southampton on Day 5
• While there could be cloudy weather, chances of rainfall is deemed minimal
• There could be showers around 12 noon and 1pm local time

Fans were left frustrated after no play was possible on the fourth day of the World Test Championship (WTC) final thanks to persistent rain in Southampton, but the forecast for the fifth day looks far more favourable.

According to the data published on the website of the United Kingdom’s Met Office, there are chances of showers in Southampton around 12 noon and 1pm local time. While the forecast does call for cloudy weather for the rest of the day, chances of rainfall are supposed to be minimal.

The forecast stands in stark contrast to what was the case on Day 4 when persistent rain was predicted. That turned out to be the case and not a single ball could be bowled throughout the day.

New Zealand will start Day 5 on 101/2 in their first innings, trailing India by 116 runs. R Ashwin provided India the breakthrough on the third day with the wicket of Tom Latham, thus ending a 70-run opening partnership between him and Devon Conway. Conway then fell to Ishant Sharma in the last over of the day. Captain Kane Williamson will hence start on 12 off 57 with Ross Taylor at the other end.