Labuschagne century gives Australia hope in Manchester
Australia have set their sights on retaining the Ashes at Old Trafford after a Marnus Labuschagne century and Manchester’s rain gave them hope of holding on for a draw.
On a wet fourth day where only 30 overs of play were available in the afternoon, Australia lost just one wicket to be 5-214 in their second innings when rain stopped play.
The tourists still need 61 more runs to make England bat again in the fourth Test, but rain is forecast again for Sunday with a weather warning also sent out by local authorities.
It means that a day that began with Australia staring down the barrel of a likely defeat has ended in a far less dire position, particularly if the expected rain arrives.
The only blow for Australia came when Labuschagne was caught behind trying to cut Joe Root on 111, ending a 103-run fifth-wicket stand with Mitch Marsh (31no).
Cameron Green then survived a chance later in the same over when he was put down by Harry Brook, low to the ground, at short leg.
Australia have conceded they have no chance of winning this Test, but are eyeing a draw that will guarantee they keep the urn if they can preserve their 2-1 series lead heading into the final Test.
“For us now it’s about retaining the Ashes,” Labuschagne said.
“This is what it comes down to. Whatever time we have left tomorrow, there’s only one option which is bat out the day.
“The rain is going play its part. But I certainly think there’ll be some sort of play tomorrow.“
Regularly frustrated by making starts on this tour without going on to make a score, Labuschagne chose the perfect moment to return to his best on Saturday.
The 29-year-old had been near chanceless until he entered the 90s, working the ball square of the wicket and digging in against the
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