IND vs ENG pitch preview: Dharamshala to feature unique pitch for fifth Test

Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium, Dharamsala. (Photo Source: BCCI)

India and England are all set to continue their ongoing five-game Test series, with both sides gearing up for the fifth Test at the HPCA Stadium, which is scheduled to begin on Thursday, March 7. As the final clash of the series approaches, there have been many discussions about the nature of the pitch that will be in play in Dharamshala.

The recent rains in the city haven’t allowed the drying-up process to begin, and no grass was spotted on the surface, even if there is any by the time of the clash, it will likely be shaved off by the time of the toss. Going by the last fixture played at the HPCA Stadium, the venue featured a clash between Delhi and Himachal Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy in February 2024. Going by those conditions, pacers could get some help from the surface, and the batters, once they get settled onto the crease, should enjoy the conditions in Dharamshala.

Since the Ranji clash, Dharamshala has witnessed spells of rain and hail, and even though there has been sun, it has not been out for an appropriate amount of time and is not strong enough to dry the surface. Furthermore, more than the surface, the weather could prove to be a bigger hindrance in the fifth Test between India and England. The forecasts have predicted that rain could be quite a possibility on day 1 of the clash.

Read More: India vs England, 5th Test, Weather Forecast and Pitch Report of HPCA Stadium, Dharamsala

Spray used by curator after talks with Dravid, weather playing possums in Dharamshala

Besides, after India’s final net session was completed, head coach Rahul Dravid took part in a conversation with the pitch curators, and the staff sprayed the pitch with a drying agent post the conversation.

With another day to go for the clash, the weather and surface could change even further as both sides gear up to face off in the fifth Test. It is worth noting that after losing the first Test of the series, the Indian team clinched the series after winning the second, third, and fourth Tests, and they will look to add another clash to their record.

Also Read: IND vs ENG 2024: Sleet, low temperatures expected to disrupt Dharamshala Test