Weather Update and Fan Arrival
The heatwave appeared to have subsided just in time for the cricket match, as a chilly wind swept through Edgbaston Road while fans gathered for day one of the second Test. This sudden change in weather left many puzzled, with no consensus among attendees on whether to wear shorts, jumpers, a combination of both, or even whimsical cow-print bodysuits.
Playing Conditions and Toss
Initially, the morning clouds lingered just long enough for Ben Stokes to announce during the coin toss that the conditions were great for bowling. Yet, this didn’t give England the expected advantage.
Tribute to Wayne Larkins
As the teams took their positions, the stadium announcer called for “a moment of appreciation of silence” for Wayne Larkins, the former England batter who passed away last week at age 71. This led to an awkward round of applause from spectators as the announcer had to remind them to listen more carefully for the tribute.
Wayne Larkins’ Cricket Career
Larkins played 13 Tests but never participated in one at this venue. He had been unexpectedly called up for the third Test against India in 1986, a decision that was met with skepticism. After a severe football injury earlier in the summer and poor performance in his return, he ultimately had to withdraw due to another injury, allowing Mark Benson to make his debut.
Match History and Context
The game ended in a draw, marking the only Test match India hasn’t lost at this ground in their eight appearances. However, as Shubman Gill noted, the historical statistic should not have any bearing on the current match, especially as that previous draw took place 39 years ago, long before either current team had players on the field.
Game Delays and Fan Experience
A delay occurred due to a reflection from a window in the Raglan Stand that distracted opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, before he misjudged a delivery from Chris Woakes. By the end of the first over, the eager crowd had already shown their enthusiasm with an audible cheer.
Catering and Fan Amenities
With an efficient staff setup, there were minimal lines, even during peak times, reflecting strong planning for the fan experience. However, food service was not as quick, leading to frustration during the lunch interval. Despite this, fans had a wide variety of meal choices, thanks to multiple stalls operated by Fordhall Farm, which has been feeding spectators since 2015. Whether it was wood-fired pizzas or “dirty chicken,” fans were well-catered, albeit under the watch of a larger catering system.
