Rain frustrates both sides

After a first day filled with the frustration of bad light, even less play was possible on the second, just an hour in the morning session.

In the hour of play that was available, England added 37 runs for the loss of one wicket. Play began half an hour early, to make up some of what was lost yesterday. Flintoff and Collingwood began cautiously, adding 13 runs in the first half hour, attempting to lay a platform.

Flintoff still found time to play his natural game, striking five boundaries in the day. Kumble proved to be a difficult proposition for the batsmen, taking the day’s only wicket when he got one to turn and bouce into Collingwood’s off-stump, and was unlucky not to have Flintoff caught, the ball dropping just short of the fielder.

Jones and Flintoff added 20 more before they were offered the light, which they accepted. No more play was possible, and soon the heavens opened. Play was eventually called off at 3:30pm local time. More rain is forecast over the next few days, pointing to a draw, meaning everything will depend on the last test in Mumbai.

England 200/5
Kevin Pietersen 64
Anil Kumble 2/42, Irfan Pathan 2/63