Australia hang on for draw

ENGLAND narrowly failed to claim a major advantage in the Ashes series after Australia clung on to claim a draw in another tense and dramatic finish to the third Test at Old Trafford.

Just eight days after holding their nerve to claim a two-run triumph and level the series at Edgbaston, England this time failed by one wicket to claim the victory which would have secured a 2-1 lead in the series with two Tests remaining.

Roared on by a capacity crowd, many of whom had queued overnight to gain entry after 10,000 fans were locked out before the start, England were unable to break the last wicket partnership between Brett Lee and Glenn McGrath.