Cook, Stokes lead England revival

London - Alastair Cook and Ben Stokes led a mini revival as England moved on to 181 for five at lunch on the third day of the second Ashes Test against Australia at Lord's on Saturday.

The pair, who came together with the hosts in deep trouble at 30 for four, extended their second-wicket partnership to 145 before Stokes was bowled by Mitchell Marsh for 87.

Cook was unbeaten on 56 at the interval with Jos Buttler five not out.

Still trailing by 385 runs, England at least have a foothold in the match after two days of complete Australian dominance.

After resuming on 85 for four in bright sunshine at the home of cricket, Stokes smashed Mitchell Johnson to the extra cover boundary for his eighth four to bring up his fifty off 67 balls.

Cook followed him to the milestone by clipping spinner Nathan Lyon through mid-wicket for three, the captain needing 142 deliveries to get to his fifty in another courageous innings for his side.

Stokes, closing in on his third test century, chopped a ball from Marsh on to his stumps that kept a touch low.

The powerful 24-year-old left-hander struck 13 fours and a six in another demonstration of his huge potential.

England, who won the first match of the series in Cardiff by 169 runs, need another 186 to avoid the follow-on.