Old Trafford, Manchester: History, Pitch and Famous Matches

Old Trafford in Greater Manchester is the home of Lancashire County Cricket Club and one of England’s traditional Test venues. The ground, which has staged first-class cricket since 1857, has a long history of drama and a reputation for weather that can influence any match.

History

Lancashire have played at Old Trafford since the mid-nineteenth century, and the ground hosted its first Test match, between England and Australia, in 1884. Since then it has been a regular part of the England summer, usually staging a Test in most Ashes series.

Its most celebrated moment came in 1956, when the off-spinner Jim Laker took 19 wickets in the match against Australia, a Test-match record that still stands. In 1990, a young Sachin Tendulkar scored his first Test hundred here against England, an unbeaten 119 that helped India save the match.

Pitch and conditions

The pitch at Old Trafford is known for bounce, which suits quicker bowlers early in a match. The surface can also wear and take turn as the days pass, so spinners often play a part in the later stages. Manchester’s climate means rain breaks and overcast skies are common, and these can bring swing and seam movement.

Major matches

The ground has been used for World Cup cricket on several occasions. In the 2019 tournament it staged India’s group-stage win over Pakistan and the first semi-final, in which New Zealand beat India.

It also holds regular international white-ball games and matches in the Vitality Blast, along with The Hundred, where the Manchester Originals play their home fixtures there.

The ground today

The ground has been redeveloped repeatedly over the years, with a capacity of about 26,000 for major events. A tram stop next to the ground connects it with central Manchester, making it easy for supporters to reach.

Together with neighbouring Old Trafford football stadium, the area is a major sporting hub in the north-west of England.