Lancashire switch Durham clash
July 27, 2012 16:10:30 UK
Lancashire have shifted their crunch County Championship relegation fixture against bottom club Durham next month to Fortress Aigburth.
Reigning champions Lancashire founded their 2011 title success on their form in Liverpool - they won four of six fixtures and the only defeat was coincidentally inflicted by Durham.
The 28th August fixture was originally scheduled for Old Trafford but the ground's reconstruction ahead of next year's Ashes has forced the club to act.
This game falls during a busy period for our contractors, who are also redeveloping our pavilion, and it will allow them to complete key activities without having to schedule around a four-day game.
Mike Watkinson
England are 1.44 to retain the Ashes, while Australia can be backed at 4.50 and the draw is 7.00.
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"We have considered a combination of factors in making this decision," explained Lancashire director of cricket Mike Watkinson.
"With regard to the construction activity at Old Trafford we are on schedule to complete our new Players and Media building in time for the NatWest international T20 between England and South Africa which will be played on 10th September.
"However, this game falls during a busy period for our contractors, who are also redeveloping our pavilion, and it will allow them to complete key activities without having to schedule around a four-day game. This also removes any potential inconvenience to players and spectators.
"In addition, we have recently endured a period of extremely wet weather which has resulted in the playing surface being under cover for extended periods. This has had an adverse effect on the grass cover to the new areas of the square.
"Given that we made a significant investment prior to 2011 on the pitches at Liverpool it makes sense to utilise this resource during this period of the above reasons."
England Lions' four-day 'Test' against Australia between 7th - 10th August remains at Old Trafford, however.
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