ZCZC
BSP-30
CRICKET-ENG-IND-RAIN,UPDATE
No play before lunch in England-India 2nd Test
LONDON, Aug 9, 2018 (BSS/AFP) – Rain meant there was no play before lunch
on the first day of the second Test between England and India at Lord’s on
Thursday.
Early morning overcast skies in north London eventually gave way to gentle
but persistent rain which was sufficient to ensure the pitch and square at
the ‘home of cricket’ remained fully covered.
The match had been due to start at 11:00am but with rain still falling no
play was possible in the morning session.
Lunch was brought forward by 30 minutes to 12:30pm in the hope of a prompt
resumption come the scheduled second session of play.
England lead the five-match series 1-0 after a 31-run victory in the first
Test at Edgbaston last week.
They will, however, make at least two changes to their side.
England captain Joe Root confirmed on Wednesday that Ollie Pope, a 20-year-
old Surrey batsman, would make his Test debut in place of the dropped Dawid
Malan.
The hosts will also be without Ben Stokes, who took three wickets on
Sunday’s fourth and final day at Edgbaston, including the prize scalp of
India captain Virat Kohli, because of the Durham all-rounder’s ongoing trial
for affray in Bristol.
England have yet to decide whether Chris Woakes, a fellow pace-bowling all-
rounder, or off-spinner Moeen Ali will replace Stokes.
Neither England nor India, who might also make changes, are obliged to
confirm their teams until the toss takes place.
BSS/AFP/ARS/1810 hrs