England Leads Pakistan 2-0 Ahead of 3rd Test at Edgbaston

England and Pakistan are set to clash in the third and final Test at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Wednesday, September 9. The good news for fans is that the latest weather forecast points to a mostly dry opening day, with only a small chance of rain on the first day of the Test.

As per the latest Met Office forecast for Edgbaston, Wednesday is expected to have sunny intervals and some clouds, with a temperature of around 17 degrees Celsius and a minimum of around 9 degrees Celsius. The chance of rain is currently around 10 per cent during most of the main playing hours, which means a major rain interruption is not expected on Day 1.

The rain chance drops to below 5 per cent in the evening, bringing relief to the fans and the Pakistan Cricket Team. However, the weather could become a bigger concern later in the match, with Friday, September 11, or the third day of the Test, expected to have a high chance of rain during the early hours and morning.

England enters the match with confidence, leading the series 2-0 after their massive victories at Headingley and Lord's. They will now aim to complete a series whitewash. On the other hand, Pakistan is entering the game with a young and inexperienced squad after a huge shuffle by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

The PCB has sent seven players home, including senior names such as Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haw, and Salman Ali Agha. Five uncapped players have been added to the team, along with the return of Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal. Pakistan has also changed their coaching staff ahead of the Test, with Head Coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul being released.

Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke have been sent to take up their roles with the Test side. The PCB is facing criticism from Pakistani fans and former cricketers for their decision. The Pakistan squad for the 3rd Test includes Babar Azam (Captain), Abdullah Fazal, Arafat Minhas, Azan Awais, Ghazi Ghori, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Imran, Mohammad Imran Razaullah, Saad Baig, Saim Ayub, Sajid Khan, Saud Shakeel, and Shan Masood.

The series has been marked by controversy, with former Pakistan Coach Jason Gillespie taking a brutal dig at the PCB, claiming that the board still owes him 'thousands of dollars' after his controversial exit. The 3rd Test is expected to be a closely fought match, with England aiming to complete a series whitewash and Pakistan looking to salvage some pride.

The weather forecast could play a crucial role in the outcome of the match, with any rain interruptions potentially affecting the result. England's confidence and Pakistan's inexperience could also be key factors in determining the winner of the 3rd Test.

In conclusion, the 3rd Test between England and Pakistan is expected to be an exciting and closely fought match, with both teams looking to achieve their respective goals. The weather forecast and team dynamics could play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the match.

The significance of this match cannot be overstated, as it will determine the final outcome of the series. England's victory in the series would be a testament to their strength and dominance, while Pakistan's win would be a major upset and a boost to their morale. The match is expected to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams giving it their all to emerge victorious.