Rain is expected to play a big part in the second test between England and Australia as the hosts look to bounce back after a heavy loss in the opening game. Australia showed great resilience to win the first test from a difficult situation. Despite not boasting of big names and being down and out on the first day, Australia led by former captain, Steve Smith went on to script one of their most memorable victories off late. England will need to believe in themselves as there were many positives from the first test. Both teams are likely going for a few changes in the playing eleven that will spice things up. A look at the players to watch out from the second Ashes Test at Lord’s. England vs Australia Cricket Score 2nd Test Match in The Ashes, 2019.

Steve Smith (Australia)

His centuries in both the innings of the first test showcased why he is regarded as the best in the world when it comes to batting. The way the former Australian skipper batted in both the innings under pressure, it left even the England supporters in awe. If England do not get him early, they could very well be in trouble again. England vs Australia 2nd Test Ashes 2019: Steve Smith vs Jofra Archer and Other Exciting Mini Battles to Watch Out for at Lord’s.

Nathan Lyon (Australia)

England had no answer to the spinning web of Nathan Lyon as the off-spinner bowled out the hosts on the fifth and final day. Pitches in England generally aid slow bowlers during the latter stages of the game and Lyon took full advantage of the conditions. England will need to find a way past his lethal deliveries.

Mitchell Starc (Australia)

The left-arm pacer was rested for Australia’s first test and should come back straight into the playing eleven. He enjoyed bowling at Lord’s during the 2019 World Cup, and the chances of him continuing his excellent form with the red ball are high. Mitchell Starc will have plenty of opportunities with both the new and old ball to break England’s back.

Joe Root (England)

When the going gets tough, England will want their best batsman and skipper Joe Root to rise to the challenge. He needs a big score at Lord’s, and the other players can play around him to give England a much-needed platform for a big score. His leadership skills will be tested too as the hosts cannot afford to go two down in the series.

Stuart Broad (England)

He may have picked five wickets in the first innings, but Stuart Broad will be the first to admit his impact could have been more. He is the leader of the English bowling unit which puts added responsibility on him with James Anderson missing. With record tumbling for Stuart Broad, he will hope the feel-good factor continues.

No English side has bounced back from a two-nil deficit in an Ashes series, which means the pressure will be on hosts to win the Lord’s test.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 14, 2019 03:05 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).