The Australian Cricket Team ended the rain-curtailed 1st day of the 4th Test in a strong position at 170 for 3 played at Old Trafford, Manchester on Wednesday.
Australian captain Tim Paine won the toss and elected to bat first. It was a perfect start for the hosts as Stuart Broad got the early breakthrough dismissing David Warner for 0. Marnus Labuschagne impressed once again with his technique. Marcus Harris looked solid with his defensive technique. Stuart Broad dismissed Marcus Harris with a great delivery. Harris and Labuschagne added 27 runs for the 2nd wicket.
After missing the third Test due to concussion, the world number 1 ranked Test batsmen Steve Smith continued his superb form in this series so far. Smith and Labuschagne steadied the Australian innings and took them to 98 for 2 at lunch.
After a long delay break due to rain, the match started again and Labuschagne reached his 50 off 88 balls. Rain arrived again at a score of 102 for 2. Steve Smith completed his half-century off 81 balls. Both batsmen looked positive against the England bowlers. Craig Overton who replaced Chris Woakes in the playing XI broke the partnership dismissing Labuschagne for 67 with a beauty. Steve Smith and Labuschagne added 116 runs for the 3rd wicket. Travis Head came to the crease and survived some scary moments before the rain arrived again at the score of 170 for 3.
The umpire decided to call Tea break. After the tea break, more rain arrived again. Despite the sunshine, the umpires called off the play as there was enough water on the ground. Australia ended the 1st day on 170 for 3 with Smith not out on 60.
Australia 170 for 3 in 44 overs (Steve Smith 60*, Labuschagne 67, Stuart Broad 2/35, Overton 1/41)
