Lord's
Cricket
T20 Blast
London
Score:
41.5
Overview
It’s time for a rant about how The Hundred ruined everything. Strap in. T20 at Lord’s used to be a lot of fun. The small number of big games that could be played under lights each season, amongst them match-ups against Essex and Surrey, were consistent sell-outs with lively crowds. Admittedly, it was a heavy-drinking, post-work corporate crowd. Elements of their behaviour took the whole ‘Lord’s is posh’ thing from a quirk to something crass, particularly the contests to see who could pop a champagne cork furthest onto the outfield. But it was still better than what you get now. With The Hundred and international cricket now claiming most, if not all, of the evenings on which the MCC is permitted to turn on the floodlights at Lord’s, opportunities to bring in the crowds of old for a Middlesex T20 are few and far between. Hence, a Blast match has gone from being an occasion to a sad reminder of how the ECB’s determination to put its new format at the forefront of the domestic season has diminished what used to be an established, enjoyable, and – perhaps most importantly – profitable brand (although not really for Middlesex, given their tenant status). You’re better off going to watch Middlesex at one of the many out-grounds at which they are now playing more of their home games than ever.
Score Summaries
Atmosphere & Experience: 3
It’s all the worse if you remember what’s been lost. Where once there was fun, tension, and probably a little too much alcohol, there’s now a much diminished smattering of the cricket faithful watching what now feels like a lacklustre, second-tier competition. Middlesex play at some charming grounds around the outskirts of London, you’re better off going to one of those and saving a trip to Lord’s for an international match.
Seats: 7
You can be assured of a good view from the vast majority of seats around Lord’s, although ticket prices are higher than those found at less famous grounds. Unfortunately, your choice of seats is likely to be limited by the closing off of large sections of the stands.
Catering: 8
While the options aren’t quite as extensive as you would find at a Lord’s international, there is still a good variety of food options. Bars are plentiful and serve an impressive range of drinks, including champagne for those looking to relive the days of shooting corks onto the outfield.
Facilities: 8
Plentiful and well-maintained, with the relatively small size of the crowd meaning you’re unlikely to find yourself stuck in a winding queue.
Getting There: 8
You’ll have multiple options available. Unlike on sell-out days, when it becomes a sardine can, St John’s Wood is a good option for a T20. Alternatively, you can walk up from Baker Street or take one of several buses that stop nearby.
Getting Away: 7.5
Also easy with a smaller crowd, with St John’s Wood still an option (although a queue is more likely at the end of a match). Buses are generally quieter than the Tube after games and will generally take you towards Oxford Street and The Strand if you’re heading to more central areas or to West Hampstead and Golders Green if you’re travelling north.