Cook feels ‘strange’ as England reign

Alastair Cook admitted the rain slightly dampened England’s celebrations after they retained the Ashes when play was abandoned at a soggy Old Trafford yesterday.

England, leading 2-0 going into this third Test, came under pressure yesterday morning, needing to bat out the day to avoid defeat against Australia.

But with the hosts on 37 for three, they got a helping hand from the Manchester weather.