England and Australia drew the second Ashes test at Lords after a tense final day to leave Australia 1-0 up in the series after two matches.
Starting the day 104 runs ahead with 6 wickets in hand, England’s chances of snatching a win were raised by all-rounder Ben Stokes, who scored a splendid 115 not out, ably supported by Jos Buttler and Jonny Bairstow, who made 31 and 30 (n.o.) respectively. Buttler’s was the only England wicket to fall this morning as they declared on 258-5 to set Australia 267 to win, or 48 overs to survive for the draw.
Australia captain Steve Smith didn’t take to the field, having been hit badly on the head and arm by fast balls from Archer the previous day, but his colleagues dug in well after the early losses of Warner and Khawaja. A big partnership between Labuschagne and Head was the mainstay of their innings as the tourists held on to finish on 154-6 with Leach and Archer having taken three wickets apiece for England.
The third test begins on Thursday at Headingley.