The Ashes 2013: 2nd Test at Lord's - Five talking points from Day 3

Peter Siddle looks on during day three of the 2nd Ashes Test match between England and Australia at Lord’s Cricket Ground on July 20, 2013 in London, England. (Getty Images)

4. The Australian bowling attack is fighting a lone battle

Peter Siddle’s quality spell at the close of day two was admirable considering the kind of demoralising meltdown the batting side suffered earlier in the day. However, even if Australia had managed to dismiss England for a total of, say 150 runs, England would have had as much chance of winning the Test match as they have now.

Tim Bresnan, the night-watchman, resisted the penetration of the bowling attack early on day three and that lead to a dropping of shoulders because deep-down they already conceded defeat. While the lack of fight is ignoble, it is difficult to blame the bowling attack. Australia needs runs to fuel the fighting attitude of their bowlers.