London: The second test match of the highly anticipated Ashes Series between Australia and England is set to begin at the historic Lord’s cricket ground on Wednesday. Australia will aim to extend their lead to 2-0, while England will be determined to bounce back and level the scorecard after a thrilling two-wicket defeat in the opening match.
The Ashes series opener at Edgbaston lived up to expectations as Australia clinched victory on the final day. England, known for their aggressive batting approach, declared their first innings at 393 with Joe Root’s unbeaten 118 and Jonny Bairstow’s 78. In response, Australia displayed resilience, with Usman Khawaja’s brilliant 141 and Alex Carey’s 66 driving their side to a chaseable total of 386.
The first test match was a nail-biting encounter, but the Aussies managed to emerge victorious. Australian spinner Nathan Lyon shone with the ball, taking four crucial wickets in the second innings. England’s Stuart Broad showcased his skills, claiming six wickets in the match, while Ollie Robinson impressed with a five-wicket haul.
As the teams prepare for the second test, England will face the challenge of playing without their experienced all-rounder Moeen Ali, who has been omitted from the playing XI due to a finger injury sustained at Edgbaston. In Ali’s absence, seamer Josh Tongue will join the side to bolster the bowling attack.
The Australian squad for the second test includes captain Pat Cummins, Scott Boland, wicketkeeper Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, wicketkeeper Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitch Marsh, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Matthew Renshaw, vice-captain Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, and David Warner.
England’s lineup for the second test will feature captain Ben Stokes, James Anderson, Jonathan Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes, and Mark Wood.
Comments