Rain and Australia’s tail frustrated England at Headingley on Saturday.

After a late start to the day’s proceedings, Australia’s second innings folded for 224, giving England a 251-run target. England openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett then saw off five overs and knocked 27 runs off the target before the stumps were drawn.

The start of the third day’s play was delayed by thunder, lightning and heavy rain. No ball was bowled in the morning or afternoon sessions, with a wet outfield, and an early tea was taken even as the England bowlers waited eagerly to have a go at the Australians.

When play finally resumed late on the third day of the third Test, England immediately seized the momentum with all-rounder Chris Woakes delivering a double strike.

But England failed to wrap it up with Australia’s tail offering stiff resistance. Mitchell Starc shared a 29-run stand with Travis Head, who also combined with Todd Murphy to add 41 runs to the total.

Starc (16) and Murphy (11) played crucial cameos which might prove to be decisive if the Australia bowlers can rein in the English batters.

Running out of partners, Head went on the offensive and was the last man to be dismissed, scoring 77 with seven fours and three sixes.