The English claimed the ascendency in the series during the first Test in Manchester after three-wicket victory in what was a cracking match, however, the weather Gods were the only winners of the 2nd Test which was played in Southampton as well.

Due to the bad light issues last week, special permission has been granted by the International Cricket Council for each day to start half an hour earlier if there is a problem with the light.

Because of the light issues last week, only 134.3 overs were bowled during the entire 2nd Test.

English skipper, Joe Root, has asked his charges to give their all as he doesn’t know when they will be able to play in the five-day format again.

“My message to the guys today was quite simple: we don't know the next time we will play Test cricket so lets’ make sure we throw everything into this week.

“Let's leave no stone unturned and we give everything to each other and the badge going into this last game. I fully expect everyone to give everything and give ourselves the best chance of finishing this series 2-0."

“It hasn't in terms of opportunity and that has come down to the wickets that we have had in front of us.

“You look at last week and it was difficult to get a spinner on in those conditions, with the limited play we have had as well.

“It has been frustrating and that's not a dig at the ground-staff. It has been difficult for them to produce three pitches each in a short space of time. That's been the state of the conditions and it would have been nice for Dom, in particular, to have the opportunity to play and make a real impact. He's done the best he can with the chances he's had.”

Play at the Ageas Bowl is scheduled to start on Friday at noon.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport