Ashes 2019: 2nd Test – England fight back on rain-affected Day 3
The rain gods continued to make their presence felt at Lord’s as Australia ended Day 3 of the second Ashes Test on 80/4. England snared four wickets before rain forced early stumps. Earlier on Day 2, the hosts posted 258 courtesy twin fifties from Rory Burns and Jonny Bairstow. In response, Australia lost David Warner early at the close of play and got 30 quick runs on the board.
On Day 3, Usman Khawaja and Cameron Bancroft negated the first hour of play, leaving England bowlers frustrated. But their persistence with the ball soon paid off, as Jofra Archer bagged his first Test wicket in the form of Bancroft (13). The Aussie opener reviewed the decision but it was umpire’s call in the end.
A special moment for Jofra Archer today as he took his first Test wicket ? #Ashes pic.twitter.com/jF7YW3dShZ
— ICC (@ICC) August 16, 2019
One brings two
In the next over, Khawaja (36) ended up giving a regulation catch to Bairstow off Chris Woakes. Broad then came back to trap Travis Head (7) plumb in front and Australia suddenly found themselves in all sorts of trouble.
Steve Smith leaving the ball is the most entertaining thing I’ve seen in a long time ???? #Ashes pic.twitter.com/nuuyRrDpaJ
— Alexandra Hartley (@AlexHartley93) August 16, 2019
Smith and the leave game
The onus was back on Steve Smith yet again, alongside his century-partner from the first Test, Matthew Wade. Both batsmen continued to dig in, leaving as many deliveries possible. Smith’s 13 off 40 balls was a series of amusing leaves. Wade, at the other end, faced 23 balls but didn’t get off the mark.
But just as England were clawing their way back into the game, rain interrupted play minutes before lunch. As the showers got heavier, the umpires decided to take an early lunch, only to never return for the rest of the day.
