Ashes 2023, Fourth Test: Marnus Stumped by Journalist; Broad Claims Aussie Draw ‘Unjust’ as Rain Looms
All eyes are on the Manchester skies on Sunday as Australia looks to escape the fourth Test with a miraculous draw that would give the tourists the Ashes urn.
England faces a nervous day five at Old Trafford after a Marnus Labuschagne century, and the loss of about two sessions of play on day four, set up a thrilling finish.
Should play be possible, Australia resumes its second innings at 5-214, trailing England by 61 runs, with Mitch Marsh (31*) and Cameron Green (3*) at the crease.
The hosts need nothing short of a win to keep the Ashes alive heading to next week’s finale at the Oval — but are now fighting two foes with both Australia and the weather standing in the way.
Twist in Ashes Tale as Marnus Epic, Rain Cruels Poms … and Sets up Another Thriller
As the fourth Test between England and Australia hangs in the balance, the weather has become a major player in determining the fate of the Ashes. With heavy and persistent rain forecast for Sunday in Manchester, the chances of a result are diminishing rapidly.
Despite the gloomy prediction, both teams are ready to give their all for the coveted urn. England fast bowler Stuart Broad expressed his dissatisfaction with the weather potentially thwarting their chances of victory. In his column for the Daily Mail, Broad wrote, Sitting in the changing room watching the rain fall yesterday, there was definitely a feeling it would be unjust if weather had a decisive say.
Australia has put up a valiant fight, led by Marnus Labuschagne’s heroic century on day four. Labuschagne, who finally found his touch with a match-saving Ashes century, along with a resilient Mitch Marsh, batted sensibly to ensure Australia only lost one wicket on Saturday. Their efforts have left the door open for a famous draw.
England, on the other hand, knows that nothing short of a win can keep their Ashes hopes alive. However, it will require a special effort from their batsmen and bowlers to overcome both the defiant Australians and the unreliable weather.
The meteorological forecast for Manchester isn’t encouraging, with a 90% chance of rain until 11am local time. Although there is a slight reduction to 60% thereafter, the prospects of play remain uncertain, with a more than 50% chance of rain throughout the entire day.
When questioned about the possibility of an Australian win during the post-match press conference, Labuschagne was taken aback. The journalist asked if Australia would attempt to get a lead and secure victory. Labuschagne responded with surprise, seeking clarification on what was being asked. After understanding the question, he chuckled and firmly stated, No. No chance (we go for the win). Zero.
With the players set for a tense day five, the contest hangs in the balance. England’s XI, featuring Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Moeen Ali, and captain Ben Stokes, will be looking to make the most of their home advantage and deliver a crushing blow to the Australians. Meanwhile, Australia’s XI, including Usman Khawaja, David Warner, Steve Smith, and captain Pat Cummins, will be hoping to defy the odds and salvage a draw to claim the Ashes.
As the cricketing world waits in anticipation, all eyes will be on the Manchester skies and the players on the field. The weather gods will play their part, but the fate of the Ashes will ultimately be decided by the skill, determination, and resilience of the players. Only time will reveal whether it will be a glorious victory, a heartbreaking defeat, or a hard-fought draw that crowns the 2023 Ashes champions.
