The surface at Edgbaston Cricket Ground is expected to provide an exciting contest between bat and ball. The pitch can offer considerable pace and bounce at the start of the match—especially on Days 1 and 2—staying true to its traditional English character. Top-order batters may find it challenging to handle the pronounced seam movement that fast bowlers are expected to enjoy, particularly in the early sessions if the skies are overcast. The Dukes ball is likely to nip around, increasing the chances of early wickets—more so if clouds linger over the ground.