Twenty20 is hit by the rain again
HEAVY rain yesterday accounted for the Twenty20 series between England and Australia with the Old Trafford pitch deemed unplayable for the second time in three days.
Sunday’s first Twenty20 game was ended prematurely by rain while yesterday’s second and final match was abandoned without a ball being bowled due to problems with the wet outfield.
Disappointed England captain Paul Collingwood said: “We wanted to get out there and play but you have to be realistic and make a brave decision. There’s an area of concern with the run-ups and it’s unfit for international cricket.
“It’s disappointing for the fans who have turned up and for those watching at home. Both teams were desperate to get out there but the conditions have taken over.”
Play was due to get underway at 7pm but an initial inspection highlighted problems with the bowlers’ run-ups, prompting a second inspection at 7.45pm.
But to the obvious disappointment of the full house gathered in Manchester, the match had to be called off.
The two sides will now reconvene at The Oval on Friday for the first of seven one-day internationals.