The second Ashes Test has been delayed by heavy rain at Lord’s, with play now due to begin at 3.30pm.

Grim forecasts for the start of play proved to be accurate, with morning downpours surrounding the ground and pools of water gathering on the outfield.

The umpires initially announced a pitch inspection for 11am during a break in the rain, although the covers were back on when another downpour followed soon after.

Umpires Aleem Dar and Chris Gaffaney (centre) speak to Joe Root during a pitch inspection
Umpires Aleem Dar and Chris Gaffaney (centre) speak to Joe Root during a pitch inspection (Mike Egerton/PA)

However, following a more successful inspection at 2.30pm, it was confirmed the toss would take place at 3pm with a view to play getting under way half an hour later.

England are 1-0 behind after Australia won the series opener by 251 runs at Edgbaston and are ready to hand Jofra Archer a debut in place of the injured James Anderson.

The final XIs will not be known until the captains meet in the middle, with Jack Leach and Sam Curran possibly fighting for one spot in the home team while Australia choose between Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood for the final seam bowling role.