Mike Watkinson issues apology for problems in drainage system after wet outfield at Old Trafford spoiled play on day 2
The second day’s play of the Old Trafford Test involving England and India was eventually called off after rain interuppted the match 9 overs into the second session. As many as 54 overs were lost in the day of this crucial fourth Test. With the teams locked at 1-1 and England slowly getting into the groove against Indian pacers, the home side’s fans were visibly angry at the lack of supportive playing conditions.
Explaining the ineffectiveness of the drainage system, Lancashire’s director of cricket Mark Watkinson issued an apology to the fans for the inconvenience.
"We apologise if people feel let down, but these are extreme circumstances. It was an extremely heavy downpour and most grounds would have struggled," Watkinson told BBC Radio 5 live.
Problems in drainage
Further explaining on the problems with the relaid turf at the Brian Statham End: "We have an area that has some new grass, some turf that is not quite as established as the rest of the field.
“The drainage is fine, but it was used for some construction work during the off-season. The pitch drains to this side, there is a natural fall. This is where the water congregates. If we have got anything wrong, it's hitting it with the waterhog and disturbing the surface. Ideally, it would drain through naturally," the former England international mentioned.
The drainage system at the ground was modified in 2008.
Experts express disappointment
The groundsmen tried their best to resume the game, but the problems in the drainage system was far worse, that invited even some furious and surprising reactions from former players and commentators.
"This sort of thing hurts cricket," said Geoffrey Boycott after the close of day 2.
astonishingly, the area near the boundary is still extremely wet. clearly the ability of the ground to drain was over-estimated.
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) August 8, 2014
And, as always there is also some fun going around with the situation.
No surprise they couldn't continue play at Old Trafford after seeing the images captured by TMS's @henrymoeranBBC... pic.twitter.com/gDmVxFvfFD
— BBC Radio 5 live (@bbc5live) August 8, 2014