'A Few Lost Overs Would Make Our Job Easier', Hazlewood Wishes for Rain to Enhance Australia's Chances in 4th Test
Australia had an abysmal Day 3 on the field [Twitter]
The unpredictable British weather could become an unexpected ally for the Australian team, struggling to maintain their footing in the fourth Ashes Test in Manchester.
Hazlewood hopes for lost overs to impact fourth Test outcome
With the home team holding a solid grip on the game, Australian fans and pacer Josh Hazlewood are now eyeing an unlikely saviour in the form of rain to help keep their series lead intact.
After a stellar performance from England's Zak Crawley, aided by half-centuries from Moeen Ali, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes & Jonny Bairstow, the home side closed their first innings with a hefty 592 runs, leaving Australia lagging behind with a 275-run deficit.
When Australia took the bat in their second innings, they once again found themselves in a tight spot, surrendering to Mark Wood's unrelenting bowling attack to close the day at 113-4, still needing 162 runs to catch up.
The hosts are currently in an enviable position, with a thumping victory within reach. In contrast, Australia is caught between a rock and a hard place, needing a herculean performance from their batsmen or a helping hand from the weather to maintain their series lead before the final Test at The Oval.
During the post-match conference after the end of play on Day 3, Hazlewood, who bagged a fifer in the first innings, expressed that while the forecast is clear, predictions can always be subject to change. He acknowledged the significant impact of rain and light on cricket throughout its history.
The lanky bowler reckoned that losing a few overs due to weather conditions would be favourable for his team, as it would make their job easier.
"It's obviously forecast but forecasts can change all the time. Obviously, rain and light plays a big part in cricket and has done forever. So, yeah, it'd be great to lose a few overs here and there, and make our job a little easier if I'm hanging in there,” said Hazlewood.
As Day 4 match approaches, the weather forecast predicts substantial rainfall. However, this will not dampen England's spirits as they sit only six wickets away from bouncing back from their initial 2-0 series deficit to level the Ashes 2023.
 "Jatin")
