Old Trafford

There's been all sorts of outcry about Old Trafford not getting any test cricket for at least the next 3 years, but surely the ECB would have warned Lancs a few years ago that their ground wasn't up to scratch? I can't imagine that they just abruptly told them that they were getting nought forat least 3 years.

I think Lancs got complacent and thought, "They wouldn't dare do that to us" and in response the ECB decided to prove a point by making good on their threat. Headingley received a similar warning from the ECB in 1999-2000 and they took note and improved the ground.

Lancastrians like a good whinge...

There was good debate on this issue on Day 3 lunch ... Bumble tried valiantly to defend his beloved OT but failed miserably, as practically all his commentary box mates derided the venue (NOT the tracks nor the outfield) but its antiquated and run down condition and LCCC's reluctance to spend money to improve facilities.

Have to say, I'll miss the venue ... I'd rather OT than bloody Sofia Gardens across the border in sheepshaggers land.

Everyone on the Lancs board for the past 25 years should be ashamed it has come to this. The northwest is one of the heartlands of English cricket - just as much as the home counties or Yorkshire. There has pretty much always been a Lancs player playing for England. The only surprise can be that it took so long for the ECB to pull the trigger. Without urgent action, rather than whining, I see no reason for the Lancashire board to expect international cricket in 3 years time.

The ground is at the moment predominantly single tier and almost all stands are uncovered. Only the sandstone pavillion doesn't look embaressing on camera and it is itself rather on the small side.

5 mins walk away down the road is the other Old Trafford. The height of the stands is incredible to anyone walking that direction from the cricket ground. The contrast between that 21st Century stadium and the 19th Century decaying dung heap that is the cricket ground could hardly be more shameful.