Cricket: Wasim swings into action

Surrey 146 Lancashire 111-6

TWO BOWLERS at opposite ends of the international spectrum will provide Lancashire's defence to Lord's officials about the quality of the Old Trafford surface after 16 wickets fell in yesterday's match against the Championship leaders, Surrey.

Harry Brind, the England and Wales Cricket Board's inspector of pitches, is required to make inquiries about any surface when 15 or more wickets fall in a day and could dock Lancashire points if he decides it is sub- standard. But umpires Jack Hampshire and John Harris and Lancashire groundsman Pete Marron are sure to point to the superb exhibitions of fast swing bowling from the experienced Pakistan all-rounder, Wasim Akram, and emerging England prospect Alex Tudor as evidence that the surface had few demons in it.

Wasim began the procession by claiming four for 42 as Surrey collapsed to 146 all out before Tudor responded by grabbing 4 for 28 from nine overs to leave Lancashire on 111 for 6.

"I don't think there is anything wrong with the wicket," confirmed the Surrey coach, Keith Medlycott. "It was a very good toss to win because the wicket got quite wet during the day-night game we had on Wednesday and it has swung about a fair amount. When you are facing players of the calibre of Wasim Akram and Peter Martin then it is going to be difficult batting."