The Ashes 2023: England's fate faces uncertainty with bad light, spin tactics, and weather could determine outcome of fourth Test

As the fourth Ashes Test reaches a critical juncture, England is gearing up for the possibility of relying on spin to secure a vital victory. The game has been evenly poised, with Australia at 5-214, needing 61 more runs to make England bat again.

However, the English team faced an unexpected hurdle during Saturday's play at Old Trafford due to bad light. England captain Ben Stokes had a heated discussion with umpires Nitin Menon and Joel Wilson, who deemed the light too poor for pace bowling, forcing Joe Root and Moeen Ali to deliver almost half the overs.

This decision was met with surprise from some pundits and fans, especially considering that one of the umpires was wearing sunglasses at the time. England staff remained adamant that the seamers should have been allowed to continue bowling, but the concern now is whether the same decision will be made on the final day.

The weather also plays a crucial role in determining the outcome, as heavy rain is forecasted in Manchester. England's hopes of winning the series rely on the weather clearing up, allowing them a chance to put Australia under pressure. 

England Assistant coach Marcus Trescothick not in favour of external factors deciding results

Australian team, on the other hand, is not averse to the idea of rain saving them in this Test, as it would enable them to retain the Ashes with a draw. However, English assistant coach, Marcus Trescothick believes that hoping for rain can be dangerous and cautioned against relying solely on external factors to influence the game's outcome.

"It's a natural thing to say. When you're trying to save the game and there's an opportunity of rain, everyone's going to say the same things," Trescothick said, as quoted by abc.net.au

Trescothick expressed his team's determination to seize any opportunity to play on the final day and make the most of it. If spin becomes England's primary weapon, they will be ready to embrace the challenge and give their best shot at securing a victory.

"Any opportunity that we can get out in the middle tomorrow we will be grabbing with both hands," he added.

Looking at the bigger picture, both teams understand the significance of winning the Ashes. The historical rivalry and prestige associated with the series make every moment crucial, and neither team is willing to back down easily. As cricket fans anticipate the final day of the fourth Test, the weather, England's spin tactics, and Australia's resilience will all come into play. The balance between the bat and ball will be critical in determining which team will emerge victorious and take the series lead.