Brilliant morning spell from Shane Bond has put NZ in control early in the second test, but Zimbabwe fought back well late in the day.

A five-wicket haul by Glenn McGrath was Australia’s only positive as England, for whom Strauss scored 106, took command at Old Trafford

New Zealand has retained the same line-up for the second test against Zimbabwe, while the home side have one addition.

Just fourteen overs of play were possible on a rain-ravaged third day of the Third Test between England and Australia at Old Trafford

In a surprise move Anil Kumble, VVS Laxman, Zaheer Khan and Lakshmipathy Balaji have been left out of the Tri-Nation Series in Zimbabwe

England have dominated the later stages of the second day at Old Trafford, to take a firm grip on the important third test.

Australian opening bowlers Brett Lee and Glenn McGrath have both recovered well from injury troubles, and may yet play at Old Trafford.

Glenn McGrath has stunningly been declared fit to play in the third test at Old Trafford, and he and Lee have both been selected.

A majestic innings of 166 from Michael Vaughan put England on top, before a late flury of wickets brought Australia back into the game.

NZC’s CEO Martin Sneddon has announced a revised home summer schedule, including Australia, Sri Lanka and the West Indies.