PORT OF SPAIN, Trindad - It seems unlikely but Australia are confident they can still force a win in the rain-marred second Test against the West Indies in Trinidad.
Only 31 overs could be bowled on day four as a heavy thunderstorm swept over Queen's Park Oval, with Australia 3-73 and holding a 127-run lead in the second innings when play was abandoned early yesterday morning (Fiji time).
Holding a 1-0 series lead and needing just a draw to retain the Frank Worrell Trophy, Australia could be forgiven for making the game safe on day five but opener Ed Cowan believes the team would risk defeat if it meant having a chance to claim the series.
"I think it will be tough, weather dependent of course, but we'll still push if we get a full day's play," Cowan said.
"We'll open up the game at some point, probably willing to lose it for the chance to win it. It will depend on whether they're willing to risk the game.
"I'm not the captain. I haven't spoken to (coach) Mickey (Arthur) or (captain) Michael (Clarke) but on that wicket we've seen scoring rates at a little over two for the game so 230, 240 even off 65, 70 overs, that's long enough for us to bowl them out if they're willing to have a go."
Cowan was one of the three wickets to fall for Australia on day four, trapped lbw for 20 by Kemar Roach (3-27) in the 10 overs after lunch that were able to be played.