Joe Root dismissed Australian century-maker Marnus Labuschagne however rain returned to Old Trafford to frustrate England’s hopes of forcing a series-levelling win within the fourth Test on Saturday. Only 30 overs had been bowled through the fourth day when the moist climate swept again in through the revised tea break. Play was formally deserted for the day at 1727 GMT. Australia are 214-5 of their second innings, nonetheless 61 runs behind England, who scored 592 of their first innings. Labuschagne was the one Australia batsman to lose his wicket on Saturday, however not earlier than he had stored England at bay with an innings of 111 — his first Test century on English soil.

England, at the moment 2-1 down within the five-match collection, should win at Old Trafford if they’re to take care of their hopes of regaining the Ashes.

Worryingly for the house aspect, the climate forecast for Sunday’s remaining day in Manchester is horrible.

Pat Cummins‘ vacationers thwarted England’s bowlers, with Labuschagne and all-rounder Mitchell Marsh (31 not out) placing on 103 for the fifth wicket.

But occasional off-spinner Root, who got here on after the umpires appeared to warn England captain Ben Stokes that it was too darkish for him to make use of his quick bowlers, made the breakthrough.

Labuschagne tried to chop Root however succeeded solely in edging the ball to wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow, who held a juggled catch.

Nitin Menon initially dominated not out however an England overview of the Indian umpire’s resolution confirmed the batsman had made contact, leaving Australia 211-5.

When play resumed Saturday at 1345 GMT, Australia have been 113-4 — nonetheless 162 runs behind England, whose first innings featured a shocking 189 from opener Zak Crawley and Bairstow’s 99 not out.

Fast bowler Mark Wood rocked Australia on Friday with three wickets, dismissing Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith and Travis Head, however the dwelling aspect toiled on Saturday.

Faced with the chance the umpires may take the gamers off the sector for unhealthy mild, and so deprive England of but extra time to drive a win, Stokes introduced on off-spinner Moeen Ali and bowled him in tandem with Root.

Labuschagne moved to close by of 100 by twice launching Root excessive over long-on for six.

He had a fortunate break on 93 when he edged Root previous Crawley at slip, earlier than a single off Moeen took him to a 161-ball century — Labuschagne’s eleventh hundred in 42 Tests.

England have been then left kicking their heels within the altering room because the rain returned.

A draw would imply Australia, because the holders, retain the Ashes whatever the consequence within the fifth and remaining Test on the Oval subsequent week.

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