Edgbaston pitch 'like jelly' ahead of third Ashes test

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With the series poised at 1-0 all eyes are on the next instalment in Birmingham, but Steve Rouse says inclement weather has left the playing surface looking "like jelly".

Forecasts between now and Thursday's scheduled first day offer little cause for optimism and Rouse acknowledges his team face a battle to prepare a wicket fit for five days.

"It's a nightmare," Rouse told BBC Sport.

"We've had two actual dry days in the last 10 and the wicket is like jelly.

"It has to be ready a day before and I've got no chance of getting it solid, not with the weather coming in."