The begin of the ultimate day of the fourth Ashes Test has been delayed after in a single day downpours was early-morning rain in Manchester,
With Australia desperately making an attempt to cling on for the draw that may retain the Ashes, umpires have been compelled to abort an 11am pitch inspection when gentle rain returned to Old Trafford.
Some 20mm has already fallen within the 24 hours to 11am on Sunday morning, and whereas there have been temporary pockets of clear air, a soggy outfield looms as an ongoing challenge.
Light rain is anticipated to proceed in patches all through day 5, that means any play could possibly be briefly bursts if the sector is ready to be dried in time.
Play could be prolonged to make up an hour of misplaced time, however the gloomy Manchester skies may make that tough.
If play does resume, Australia will begin the ultimate day on 5-214, nonetheless needing one other 61 runs to make England bat once more.
A draw would guarantee Australia retain the Ashes as holders, since the very best England may then hope for could be a 2-2 collection outcome with a win within the fifth Test.
Victory in Manchester for the hosts, nonetheless, would stage the collection at 2-2 headed into Thursday’s finale at The Oval.
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
