Vaughan rides luck to hit half-century

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Michael Vaughan rode his luck to score an unbeaten half-century and help England make a strong start to the second Ashes Test against Australia on Thursday.

The opening batsman was 56 not out at lunch as England reached 94 for one. But he had a lucky escape on 19 when he was given the benefit of the doubt by the video umpire after Justin Langer claimed a low catch at point.

Vaughan stood his ground while third umpire Steve Davis watched several replays. Despite protestations from Langer that he had taken the catch before it touched the ground, Davis ruled the replays inconclusive.

The 28-year-old from Yorkshire almost pulled out of the match after twisting his knee while practising his fielding before the toss, but he offered just one chance as he posted his first half-century of the series.

Vaughan hit four fours and two sixes, both off paceman Andy Bichel.

Robert Key, one not out at lunch, was called into the side after John Crawley pulled out because of the hip injury he sustained in the warm-up match against Australia A.

Vaughan and Marcus Trescothick gave England a flying start after Nasser Hussain won the toss and opted to bat first on a flat Adelaide Oval pitch.

Trescothick had a life when he was dropped on 19 by Matthew Hayden in the gully. But he failed to make the most of his second chance when he dragged a ball from Glenn McGrath back on to his stumps and was bowled for 35 with the total on 88.

Detailed Scorecard

Mail Cricket Editor