England vs. Australia the Ashes 2013: Highlights from Day 4 of Third Test

England may have a 2-0 lead in the Ashes but the host nation has been forced to delay their celebrations against an Australia side that continues to show increasing fight.

As reported by Daniel Brettig of ESPNcricinfo, Day 4 suffered an early end due to bad light and rain.

Kevin Pietersen's Day 3 century helped England ease back into the encounter, combined with half centuries from Ian Bell and Alastair Cook, ensured England only needed 34 runs to avoid the follow-on.

Although it is not a day that will be remembered for terrific catches or individual heroism, let’s take a look at the highlights from Day 4:

England Avoid Follow-On

Matt Prior and Stuart Broad calmly stroked England to the all-important 328, avoiding the follow-on, but Australia didn’t take long to mop the tail up after the target was achieved.

Broad edged Nathan Lyon’s ball into the gloves of Brad Haddin. Graeme Swann then edged Peter Siddle’s ball and decided to strut towards the stands before the umpire's decision.

Siddle struck again with England at 368. This time, Prior aimed a halfhearted shot towards legside only to see it float into the hands of David Warner.

Aussies Maintain Grip

Michael Clarke’s men started well enough but Warner and Chris Rogers fell to balls from Broad and Tim Bresnan to leave them at 74/2. 

Clarke maintained control with 30 by the end of the day’s play as Australia’s batsmen tried to rack up quick runs.

…until Bad Light Stops Play

Australian frustrations were emphasised as Clarke was animated with the umpires’ decision to stop proceedings due to bad light. The visitors were on a healthy 172/7 and planned to declare before the end of the day.

Unfortunately for the Baggy Greens, Clarke will now be forced to declare overnight, meaning England just need to see out the final day to retain the Ashes.

Australia will need the likes of Siddle, Ryan Harris and Nathan Lyon to pick up the 10 wickets.

Clarke’s team will be wary of one thing heading into the final day: Staying power secures the 2013 Ashes for England.