Persistent early morning rain has delayed the second Ashes Test between England and Australia which was scheduled to start at 11:00am (1000 GMT) at Lord's today.

The square and pitch remained fully covered and prospects of any play before lunch appeared slim.

Ashes holders Australia lead the five-match series 1-0 after their 251-run win in the first Test at Edgbaston last week.

It is 18 years since Australia last won an Ashes series in England. England have only won seven Ashes campaigns from behind, most recently when they took the celebrated 2005 series 2-1.

Neither England nor Australia had yet named their teams. They are not required to do so until the toss takes place.