Rain delays start of second Ashes Test

The pitch at Lord's was fully covered following early morning rain

Rain delays start of second Ashes Test Groundsmen cover the pitch at Lord's Cricket Ground | Reuters

Early morning rain delayed the start of the second Ashes Test between England and Australia at Lord's on Wednesday.

The pitch was fully covered following unrelenting rain. It is unlikely that play will start before lunch.

Australia lead the five-match Ashes series 1-0 following their 251-run win in the first Test at Edgbaston. The visitors will look to win their first away Ashes in 18 years.

England's all-time leading wicket-taker James Anderson has been ruled out of the Lord's Test due to a calf injury. In his absence, Jofra Archer will make his Test debut.

England and Australia are yet to named their teams for the match.