Sports / Australia vs England, Weather Forecast: Rain interruption likely in World Cup 2nd semi-final

The 1st semi-final between India and New Zealand entered the record books as it became the first World Cup knockout match to spill into the reserve day. A steady drizzle in Manchester on Tuesday forced the match officials to call off play and resume the game on the following day.

Wet weather has been an issue in England and as many as 4 matches have been abandoned due to rain in World Cup 2019.

With rain returning for the knockout stages as well, all eyes are on the weather forecast. The iconic Edgbaston in Birmingham hosts the second semi-final between hosts England and defending champions Australia on Thursday.

England vs Australia, World Cup 2019 semi-final: Weather Forecast for Birmingham on Thursday

11:30 am IST: No surprises, there is rain threat in Birmingham on Thursday. The 2nd semi-final between England and Australia is likely to be interrupted by light showers, especially in the afternoon.

England and Australia begin their semi-final battle from 10:30 AM BST and 3 PM IST on Thursday.

A rather cloudy start with some outbreaks of light rain, but the rain will steadily ease with some bright spells developing. Isolated showers are possible during the afternoon, with one or two on the heavy side. Feeling warm and humid, Met Office forecast says.

Keep in mind, there is a reserve day for the 2nd semi-final as well.

When does a World Cup 2019 match spill into the reserve day

In the event of poor weather for example, steps will be taken to be able to finish the match that day -- reducing the number of overs down to the minimum of 20 overs per team needed to achieve a result, or by extending the match by up to 120 min.

If there is still no result on the scheduled match day, play will continue on the Reserve Day, using the same start time and hours of play as the scheduled match day.