Clarke century saves Australia in rain-hit Edgbaston Test

Michael Clarke's unbeaten century has saved Australia from defeat in the third Ashes Test at Edgbaston, which ended in a draw on 3 August after rain wiped out large parts of the match.

England, who lead the series 1-0, had been in control after building a first-innings lead of 113, but the loss of most of the first day and all of the third day to rain left too little time to force a result.

Clarke and North hold firm

On the final day, Clarke made 103 not out and shared a partnership of 185 with Marcus North to ensure Australia batted out the match. It was Clarke's second century of the series.

England's bowlers had hoped to take early wickets and set up a push for victory, but the Edgbaston pitch had eased, and the Australian pair were rarely troubled.

England on top

Earlier in the match, England had given themselves a strong position by bowling Australia out for 263 in their first innings and then building a healthy lead. The home crowd, famously loud at Edgbaston, had been hoping for a repeat of 2005, when England won a thrilling Test here by two runs on their way to regaining the Ashes.

The series so far

England won the second Test at Lord's, their first Ashes victory at the ground since 1934, after holding on for a draw in the first Test in Cardiff, where their last-wicket pair survived the final overs.

With two Tests left, at Headingley and The Oval, England need to win the series to regain the Ashes, which Australia won 5-0 in 2006-07. A drawn series would be enough for Australia to keep them.

The weather

Rain has been a frustration for spectators throughout the Test, with supporters spending long periods waiting under umbrellas for play to start. The whole of the third day was lost, and play was limited on several other days.

Edgbaston's Ashes history

Edgbaston has staged Test cricket since 1902, when it hosted the first Test of that year's Ashes series. It has a reputation as one of England's favourite grounds, thanks to its passionate crowds and the famous Eric Hollies Stand.

The ground is due to be redeveloped in the coming years, with a new pavilion and stands planned to secure its future as a major international venue.

On to Headingley

The series moves on to Headingley later this week for the fourth Test. England will be hoping that captain Andrew Strauss and his side can build on their lead, while Australia will take confidence from their fightback at Edgbaston.