Time: 1100, 04/08/2017
Venue: Old Trafford
TV: Sky Sports
England may have more to fear from the Manchester weather rather than from South Africa heading into the fourth and final Test at Old Trafford.
The Three Lions lead the series 2-1 after prevailing by 239 runs at The Oval and it is hard to see the Proteas bouncing back from that mauling.
However, with rain forecast to affect the next match on Saturday, Monday and Tuesday, we’re siding with a stalemate at 9/4 for our final England vs South Africa prediction.
It has to be admitted that such results are becoming increasingly rare due to the attacking ethos of modern-day Test cricket.
England have gone seven matches without a draw and have registered only four in their last 30 games.
South Africa’s stats are more encouraging in this department, though, with eight stalemates in 26 Tests.
Given that a draw would allow the Three Lions to claim a series win, we’re backing Joe Root to tone down his natural inclination to go on the offensive at every opportunity.
South Africa urged to show more mettle
The Proteas, meanwhile, appear determined to prove they can knuckle down in the batting department after some fickle displays on this tour.
Reflecting on the latest encounter, when South Africa fell to 61 for seven in their first innings before being bowled out for 175, Vernon Philander said: “We all admitted it wasn’t our best Test match.
“We let ourselves down with the bat in the first innings, so we’re looking forward to correcting those mistakes in this one and hoping to go level in the series.”
Dean Elgar showed his side the way with a dogged 136 in the second innings at The Oval and we’re hoping a few more players follow his lead and dig in at Old Trafford.
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