England v SA third Test to resume Saturday, day three of five

Following the cancellation of Friday’s second day of play in a mark of respect for the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, the decisive third Test between England and South Africa at The Oval will resume on Saturday. It will be day three of the five, with the Test set to finish on Monday.

Also read: PICS: Queen Elizabeth II with SA sporting stars

The first day of action was completely washed out after England had won the toss and sent the Proteas in to bat.

The match is now a de facto three-day match. While discussions were held to extend the match beyond Monday’s scheduled finish, South Africa’s players have to leave the UK on Tuesday. Many of the players then head to India next Saturday, before moving on to Australia.

Although both of the previous Tests at Lord’s and Old Trafford were completed inside three days, the Oval has been a much friendlier batting venue in the past.

Also read: Queen’s death – Friday’s play between England and SA at the Oval cancelled

The England and Wales Cricket Board announced on Friday afternoon the decision to resume all cricket activities on Saturday, saying it is in line with the Official National Mourning guidelines and the advice they have received from the UK government’s Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.

Suffering loss

With the United Kingdom suffering the loss of their longest-serving monarch, Queen Elizabeth II having reigned for 70 years, cricket will be paying its respects with a minute’s silence being observed and then the national anthem being played before the start of play.

All players and coaches will wear black armbands and branded inventory will be replaced with messaging paying respects to the Queen, according to the ECB statement.

Also read: Much-changed SA batting line-up; but no action on 1st day