FIFTH TEST MATCH. ENGLAND THREE FOR 187. RAIN FALLS.

Evening Post, Volume LXXV, Issue 46, 24 February 1908, Page 8

FIFTH TEST MATCH. ENGLAND THREE FOR 187. RAIN FALLS.

THE GAME HAS TO BE STOPPED. By Telegraph.— Press Association.- Copyright. SYDNEY, 22nd February. Tho fifth tost match between tho M.C.C. team and the Australians, commenced yesterday, was continued to-day. When stumps were drawn last evening the 1 score stood : — Australia , first innings, 137 ; England, first innings, il6 for one wicket. Light showers fell this morning, but th& weather -was dry, with a hard southerly gale blowing, when Hobbs and Gunn Tesumed batting. The wicket was slow but easy when stumps were drawn last night, but the rain made it a bit more difficult at the start. Hobbs had added 7 when Saunders bowled him. Two for 135. The score mounted quietly, and then rain prevented play for a quarter of an hour. On resuming Hutcbings was run out. Gunn called, but Tepented when Trumper returned smartly to the wicketkeeper. By this time Hutchings was three-parts of the -way down. The wicketkeeper threw to Saunders, the bowler, and .iutchings,- who- did not attempt to get back, was dismissed. Three wickets for 168. After lunch. Hardstaff commenced hard Hitting, getting into double figures in thTee strokes. Then a heavy shower drove the players into the pavilion. The wicket got such a drenching that play was abandoned for the day at 4.30 p.m. Scores : — ENGLAND.— First Innings. Fane, b Noble 0 Hobbs, b Saunders 72 Gunn, not out 77 Eutchings, run out 13 Hardstaff, not, out „.. 17 Extras 8 Total for three wickets 187 WEATHER THREATENING. (Received February 24, 10.21 a.m.) SYDNEY, This Day. There was no rain all night, but light showers fell this morning. ,The weather is very threatening. PLAY DELAYED. (Received February 24, 2.12 p.m.) SYDNEY, This Day. Play was delayed til' one o'clock, when the umpires will again examine the wicket. The weather is fair but threatening.