England continued to remain on the backfoot on the third day of the Lord’s test as the visitors just compounded their worries. England began the morning on a positive note, as Alastair Cook and Ben Stokes were cautious. The first hour and a half belonged to England as there was finally some resilience from the hosts. Skipper Alastair Cook batted excellently as he and Stokes gathered the runs. Soon however, it was the golden arm of Mitchell Marsh which did the trick as he castled both, Stokes and Cook. Cook was unfortunate to miss out on a ton as he was dismissed for 96.
The English were all out for 312, as Mitchell Johnson grabbed the last wicket. The Australians then batted well and did not let the hosts damage them. Only one team can win from here, and yes, it is Australia for sure. Below, are the five statistical highlights from the 3rd day’s play:
1. This is the first time that 3 MITCHELL’s have taken atleast one wicket in an inning. (Marsh, Johnson and Starc).
2. Alastair Cook now has now been dismissed 7 TIMES within the 90’s.
3. Ben Stokes was the 16th BATSMAN to be dismissed on 87 by the Australians.
4. Cook has been without an Ashes ton for 22 INNINGS now.
5. This was the 4th INSTANCE where Clarke could have enforced the follow on. He did not do so. However, he has emerged victorious on the previous 3 occasions.