THE FIFTH TEST

New Zealand Times, Volume XXX, Issue 6451, 24 February 1908, Page 5

THE FIFTH TEST

SECOND DAY GOOD STAND BY ENGLISH BATSMEN. PLAY STOPPED BY RAIN. By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright (Received February 22, 6.55 p.m.) SYDNEY, February 22.

Tho fifth test match between the M.C.C. team and the Australians, commenced yesterday, was continued today. When stumps were drawn last evening the score stood; —Australia, first inniugs, 137; England, first innings, 116 for one wicket. Light showers fell this morning, but the weather was dry, with a hard, southerly gale blowing, when Hobbs and Gunn resumed batting. The wicket was slow but easy when stumps were drawn last night, but the rain made it a hit more difficult at tho start. Hobbs had added 7, when Saunders bowled him. Two for 133. The score mounted quietly, and then rain prevented play for a quarter of an hour. On resuming Hutchings was run out. Gunn called, but repented when Trumpet returned smartly to the wicket-keeper. By this time Hutchings was three-parts of tho way down. Tho wickoLkoeper threw to Saunders, the bowler, and Hutchings, who did not attempt to get back, was dismissed. Three wickets for 163. After lunch Hardstaif commenced hard hitting, getting into double figures in three strokes. Then a heavy shower drove the players to the pavilion. Tho wicket got such a drenching that play was abandoned for tho day at 4.30 p.m. Scores:—

KN GLAND.—First Innings. Fane, ,b Noble ~ 0 Hobbs, b Saunders ... 72 Gunn, not out ... 77 Hutchings, run out ... 13 Hardstaff, not out ’ ... 17 Fixtras ... ... ... 8 Total for three wickets ... 187