Ashes 2023, 2nd Test | Australia Dominates 'Moving Day' as Rain Halts Play

image-ljjorka4Steve Smith holds the key for Australia in the second Ashes Test (Source: AP Photos)

Australia built a substantial lead of 221 runs against England in the second Ashes test at Lord's before rain interrupted play on day three. Usman Khawaja displayed resilient batting skills, remaining unbeaten on 58 off 123 deliveries in challenging bowling conditions. His partnerships with opening batsman David Warner and Marnus Labuschagne ensured Australia maintained their dominance. 

At the close of play, Khawaja was accompanied by Steve Smith, who scored 6 runs, as Australia reached 130-2 in their second innings. Unfortunately, due to the rain, 25 overs remained unutilized in the day's play. 

Australia thoroughly dominated the crucial third day of the test match, often referred to as the "Moving Day," and have significantly shifted the balance of the game in their favor. They enjoyed a dream start when Mitchell Starc dismissed the opposing captain with only the second ball of the day, setting the tone for their exceptional performance. 


Khawaja shines as Australia takes commanding lead

image-ljjon8x2Session-wise Figures of Day 3

Mitchell Starc set the tone for Australia by dismissing Ben Stokes with only the second ball of the day, initiating England's downfall. Harry Brook, however, fought back and notched up his fourth Test fifty. Starc eventually got rid of Brook, employing a short ball strategy. Josh Hazlewood joined the wicket-taking spree, accounting for Bairstow's dismissal. Travis Head contributed to England's collapse by dismissing both Robinson and Broad in a single over. Captain Pat Cummins ended the innings by bouncing out Tongue. England managed to reach a total of 325 runs in 76.2 overs, giving Australia a significant lead of 91 runs at the innings break.

England wasted a review appealing for lbw against David Warner, which was unsuccessful. Ollie Pope sustained a right shoulder injury while fielding and had to leave the field. The Australian openers, Warner and Labuschagne, formed a solid 50-run partnership. However, Josh Tongue ended their collaboration by dismissing Warner in the 25th over. Labuschagne then received a lifeline when a successful review overturned his lbw dismissal off Tongue's bowling. At Tea on Day 3, Australia stood at 81/1 in 32 overs, with Labuschagne batting on 8 off 23 deliveries and Khawaja on 45 off 93.

Usman Khawaja achieved his third half-century of the Ashes, leading Australia to the 100-run mark with a boundary. Marnus Labuschagne survived a close lbw call off Stuart Broad's bowling, which was later confirmed as out upon reviewing. Australia's lead surpassed 200 runs, and Khawaja and Labuschagne formed a steady 50-run partnership. Jimmy Anderson dismissed Labuschagne with an unexpected delivery. Rain delayed play, leaving Australia at 130/2 with Khawaja on 58 off 123 balls and Steve Smith on 6 off 24 balls. The day concluded with Australia's score remaining at 130/2.


Conclusion

England's batting performance in the first session was forgettable, losing six wickets for a mere 47 runs and conceding a 91-run lead to Australia. However, their bowling displayed determination despite limited rewards. Stuart Broad posed a constant threat and troubled Marnus Labuschagne, although he remained wicketless. James Anderson dismissed Labuschagne, while Josh Tongue delivered a remarkable ball to dismiss David Warner. 

A missed LBW review by Ben Stokes denied them an earlier wicket, revealed later by Ball Tracking to be hitting the stumps. Despite their bowlers' commendable efforts, luck was not on England's side. They will seek redemption and look to make a strong start on Day 4.