ENGvsAUS 4th Ashes Test 2023. (Photo Source: Gareth Copley – ECB/ECB via Getty Images)
Day 3 of the ongoing fourth Ashes Test was completely dominated by hosts England. In a perfect showcase of ‘Bazball’ cricket, the English batters wreaked havoc on the Aussie bowlers. Being in a commanding position, it could be interesting to see how Day 4 of the fourth Test unfolds in Manchester.
However, the chances for a draw always remain, as Day 4 and Day 5 are predicted to come alongside heavy rain. The weather forecast stated that overcast conditions are likely across Day 4 and that the chances of rain are quite high as well. According to several sources, there is a 90% chance of rain on Day 4 of the fourth Test match, which could prove to be a big disappointment for the English fans, considering the position that they currently find themselves in.
Furthermore, the temperature in the morning could be about 14 degrees, with it rising up to 16 degrees in the evening. Along with the overcast conditions, high-speed winds are also expected. Seeing the forecast, the hosts will only be hopeful that it will not disrupt a major part of the play and that a result could come out of the much-anticipated game.
Jonny Bairstow’s knock kept England in the fray
Day 3 of the fourth Ashes 2023 Test began with Harry Brook and skipper Ben Stokes in the middle, looking to further build on the brilliance of the top order, and the two batters did just that. Brook amassed 61 runs in 100 deliveries, whereas Stokes scored 51 runs in 74 deliveries.
Their knocks helped the hosts propel themselves into an even more commanding position. However, it was the brilliance of stumper Jonny Bairstow that really stood out for England on Day 3. Playing an unbeaten knock of 99 runs, Bairstow helped England to a score of 592 runs in the first innings.
Furthermore, the Ben Stokes-led side kept it up with the ball as they sent the Australian top-order packing cheaply. By the time stumps were called on Day 3, Australia found themselves at a score of 113 runs with the loss of four wickets.