Brad Hogg unhappy with no 'reserve day' for rain-fed fourth Test of Ashes 2023
"Brad Hogg said that with both teams level at 2-2 heading into the fifth game, the series would’ve been set for an exciting finish" he added
Crickate
Australia retained the Ashes after the fourth Test of the ongoing series at Old Trafford, Manchester, ended in a tie after two days of relentless rain. Australia was 214/5 and trailing England by 61 runs in the second innings, but England was unable to compel a result due to persistent rain.
With only one game remaining, the Pat Cummins-led squad retained the 'urn' as the current bearers of the trophy, having won it in the 2021-22 season. Brad Hogg, a former Australian cricketer, was dissatisfied with the outcome and stated that there should have been a reserve day to compel a result in the game because heavy rains were predicted for the last two days.
"You are permitted a reserve day. I believe they should have stated, "Rain is possible at Old Trafford." Hogg stated on talkSPORT that there is a high possibility of precipitation, so a rest day may be scheduled and the next Test match may be delayed by a day.
In addition, Brad Hogg stated that with the series tied at 2-2 headed into the fifth game, an exciting conclusion would have been expected."We want to go into the final Test match with a chance for both teams to be tied at 2-2, and we want that to be the apex of the series. And now we have lost this opportunity," he continued.
In 2013, England retained the urn after the third Test of the series at Old Trafford was rained out. The hosts were reeling at 37/3 in the fourth innings pursuing a target of 332 when rain intervened.
Australia is seeking to win its first Ashes series in England since 2001.
In the meantime, the fifth and final Test of the series will commence on Thursday, July 27 at the Kennington Oval in London. Despite having lost the chance to regain the Ashes, the Ben Stokes-led team still has a lot to play for as they attempt to defend their 22-year home unbeaten record against Australia.
On the other hand, Australia is on the verge of claiming their first Ashes series victory in England since 2001 at the Oval. Pat Cummins, who won the World Test Championship final 2023 in June, will be keen to add another feather to his cap and etch his name in history by capturing the Ashes.
