The highly anticipated series opener was delicately poised after lunch on day four. Ben Stokes and Jonny Bairstow took England’s lead past 200 early in the session, before Bairstow fell to Nathan Lyon leaving England six down.

A significant amount of play was lost to weather on day three, and day four has been extended to make up some time. However, if Australia cannot chase down their target after bowling England out today, they may also have to contend with a changeable forecast on the fifth and final day.

Although the forecast predicted a likely washout earlier in the week, it has somewhat improved. Heavy showers are scheduled to hit Birmingham in the morning, but should clear up by midday. In the afternoon there is the possibility of rain until six o’clock, but the chances of it hitting are at 30 per cent.

As long as the morning downpour does not soak the outfield severely enough to overwhelm the drainage system, and the afternoon showers stay away, play later in the day should be unaffected.

Weather forecast for Tuesday June 19 at Edgbaston