Her Team Her Dream

The Forecast: Grim

Saturday morning began with a lot of hesitation. I kept glancing out the window at the grey, miserable sky and wondering if this trip was a terrible idea. The forecast didn’t look good, rain all day, and I was almost certain we wouldn’t get to see a single ball bowled. But I reminded myself that even if the cricket was a washout, a day out with Andrea is always worth it. Cricket would just be the bonus if we got lucky.

We decided to leave the car at home and try public transport for a change. It felt like part of the adventure. A bus into Bury and then a tram straight to Old Trafford Cricket Ground. Easy, right?

Well, almost.

The Journey Begins (with a Surprise from Above)

It all started with a bang, or rather, a splat. As we walked to the bus stop, a bird decided to bless me with a very special delivery, right on my hood and in my hair. Andrea couldn’t stop laughing, when she finally stopped and caught her breath, she did help me clean it off. Once that drama was over, the rest of the journey was smooth and surprisingly enjoyable. It definitely wasn’t the start I imagined, but honestly, it set the tone for a day filled with unexpected fun.

I’d read online that the tram stop was about a ten minute walk from the ground, but to my surprise, the stop was right outside the stadium. We just had to walk around the corner to get to the main gates. A small win already.

Welcomed with Stilts and Smiles

As we entered, we were greeted by stilt walkers dressed in bright, cricket-themed costumes, a brilliant touch. They happily posed for a photo with Andrea, who was still buzzing from the tram ride and bird-related drama.

At the gate, a kind steward took the time to chat with us and point out where we could sit to stay dry. He handed us a couple of 4 and 6 cards too, just in case we got some action on the pitch. Little gestures like that really make a difference, especially when you’re trying out a new ground for the first time.

Old Trafford allows you to bring your own food in, but we decided to treat ourselves. It felt like one of those days where a little indulgence was called for. We wandered over to the food stalls and ordered a BBQ Smash Burger to share. Honestly, it was next level delicious, smoky, juicy and just what we needed to lift the rainy mood. Highly recommend grabbing one if you’re ever there.

Delays, Doodle Boppers and a Dash of Magic

With the rain still falling and no sign of play starting, we took a slow wander to the club shop. There we met Paul, who was not only lovely to chat with but also gave us a brilliant tip, there was a free face painter near the front entrance. That was all Andrea needed to hear.

We popped back outside (after getting Andrea a doodle bopper headband of course), and found Sarah from House of Body Art, who was creating incredible airbrushed face paint designs. Andrea chose a beautiful red rose, a perfect nod to Lancashire, and Sarah worked her magic. The finished result was stunning. Andrea was so thrilled that she made it her mission to spread the word to every other child in the stand. Soon we were surrounded by a little army of face-painted fans.

When Life Gives You Rain, Play Cricket from the Balcony

Still no play, but the entertainment didn’t stop. The players were clearly doing their best to keep themselves and the crowd entertained. We saw everything from football and golf games to a paper airplane contest on the players’ balcony.

A huge shoutout has to go to the DJ. Whoever was on the decks had clearly come prepared for this weather. Every possible song with rain in the title or lyrics, the playlist was perfectly themed. Andrea and I, along with a lovely family sat nearby, had such a laugh spotting the weather references in each song. It turned the delay into a bit of a game and added to the sense of community.

Finally… Cricket

Just when we’d started to think we might not see any action, the rain eased up. Cue the incredible ground staff, who got straight to work and transformed the pitch in record time. Thanks to their efforts, we were told we’d be getting an eleven over match. Not quite the full twenty overs, but we were just thrilled there’d be any play at all.

Surrey won the toss and chose to bowl.

Lancashire’s innings:
Over 0.1 – Kesteven stumped by Chathli (0)
Over 1.2 – Smale (9) out LBW by McDonald-Gay
Over 7.3 – Threlkeld (24) bowled by Gregory
Over 8.3 – Lister (5) stumped by Chathli
Over 9.1 – Morris (29) bowled by Corteen-Coleman
Over 9.3 – Collings (4) bowled by Corteen-Coleman
End of innings: 85 for 6

After a quick turnaround, Surrey stepped up to bat.

Surrey’s innings:
Over 4.1 – Smith (15) caught by Smale
Over 4.3 – Harris (4) caught by Morris
Over 5.4 – Wyatt-Hodge (25) caught by Lister
Over 6.5 – Chathli (2) bowled by King

Unfortunately, the rain came back and brought the game to an early end. Surrey finished 62 for 4, just ahead on the DLS method (magic cricket maths), so they won by only 2 runs.

There were still moments of real magic. Watching King take her first wicket for Lancashire was one of them. Her face lit up with pride, I really hope it’s the first of many for her.

And a moment of true sportsmanship stood out too. In the final over, Surrey hit what the umpire couldn’t quite call, was it a 4 or a 6? It turns out it was a 6, and Morris confirmed it honestly.

Soaked but Smiling

Growing up, I spent summers at my cricket obsessed Nanna’s house. And I don’t mean casual interest, her entire day was structured around the match. Brews at drink breaks and Tea was only served at the end of play. And woe betide anyone who spoke during a key over. Being there brought all those memories back, and I realised how much I absorbed without even realising it.

That said, there’s still so much more I want to learn about cricket. Andrea loved the experience, and we’re both keen to go again. Next time, we’ll bring Willem too. Now that I know how simple the public transport route is, it’s something we can all enjoy.

Despite the weather, and despite looking like a drowned rat who had been dragged backwards through a wet hedge, the day was wonderful. The laughter, the music, the people, the sense of community. And most of all, the quality time with Andrea. That was what made the day special.

And getting to see some actual cricket? That was just the icing on a very rain soaked but joyful cake.

Getting ready for a Lancashire Cricket match? Here's everything you need to know for a smooth and enjoyable experience!

Getting Your Tickets 🎟️
Snagging tickets is a breeze! Just head over to the Lancashire Cricket Website. Remember, you'll need to create an account for each person attending.

Electronic Tickets 📱
Once you've purchased your tickets, download the official app and log in to your account. Your tickets will be waiting for you there. I recommend doing this in advance to save time on match day. Simply open the app, click on your ticket, and you're ready to go!

Getting There 🚋
Public transport is a fantastic option. We found it super easy! Regular trams run from Manchester Centre (take the green or purple line towards Altrincham). The cricket ground is right at the tram stop, just follow the path around to the front entrance.

Food & Drink 🍴
Good news for picnic lovers! You're welcome to bring your own food into the ground, just be sure to skip the glass containers. If you prefer to buy your grub there, you'll find plenty of food stalls and bars. We tried the "Burger Smash" and highly recommend their burgers, but keep an eye out for other vendors that might be open depending on the game.

Bags 🎒
You can bring small backpacks that fit under your seat. However, large suitcases aren't permitted.

Pre-Game Email 📧
Don't forget to check your inbox for the pre-game email from Lancashire Cricket. It's packed with useful information, including match timings and other important details to help you plan your day.

Follow the Action Online 📱
Can't make it to the game or want to catch all the pre-match excitement and live action from another angle? Head over to the Lancashire Live YouTube channel to tune in.

While you're at it, give them a follow on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) so you don't miss any updates!