All the eyes of the cricketing world are on Manchester today as Australia attempt to stop England from running away with victory in the third Ashes test.
It is the first time in eight years that the Emirates Old Trafford has played host to an Ashes test and England will be hoping to capitalize on their 2-0 lead.
As flocks of Aussies have descended on the city cricket fever has taken over and the rivalry between the countries is set to intensify as the third test gets under way.
Despite being able to seal the series at Old Trafford England captain Alastair Cook is refusing to look past Manchester.
“It is a great opportunity we have but you can’t start thinking about anything other than the first hour,” Cook told a press conference.
England have an excellent record at Old Trafford – home ground of bowling star James Anderson – having not lost at the ground since 2001.
However, this will be the first Test at the ground since the pitch was switched through 90 degrees meaning there could be some unpredictability to proceedings.
Picture courtesy of Nic_r, with thanks.
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