Updated

Australia declared on their overnight 172 for seven Monday to leave England needing 332 to win the third Ashes Test at Old Trafford on the fifth and final day.

Australia, 2-0 down in the five-match series, had to win this match to stand any chance of regaining the Ashes.

But, as happened when play was cut short by a combination of bad light and rain on Sunday, the weather was against Michael Clarke's men.

Heavy overnight and early morning rain saw the start of Monday's play delayed by at least 30 minutes to 11.30am local time (1030GMT), weather permitting.

A draw in this match would see England retain the Ashes.