Standing proudly in Greater Manchester since 1857, Emirates Old Trafford is not just a cricket ground—it’s a cathedral of cricket history. Old Trafford is England’s second oldest Test venue after The Oval and hosted the first Ashes Test in England in 1884. As Lancashire County Cricket Club’s home ground, it has witnessed legendary moments that have shaped cricket history.
India vs England 4th Test 2025 – The Battle at Old Trafford
Cricket enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly awaiting the fourth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series between India and England at Old Trafford. With England currently leading the series 2-1 after their thrilling 22-run victory at Lord’s, this Test has become a must-win encounter for India to keep their series hopes alive.
Series Context:
- Current Status: England leads 2-1 in the 5-match series
- Stakes: India must win both remaining Tests to claim the series
- Historic Challenge: Old Trafford has been India’s nemesis – no Indian victory in 9 previous Tests at this venue (4 defeats, 5 draws)
- WTC Points: Crucial points available for the 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle
Key Storylines:
- Jasprit Bumrah’s Participation: India is reportedly ‘leaning towards’ playing their pace spearhead at Old Trafford
- Venue Significance: James Anderson developed his skills here as Lancashire’s stalwart, while Sachin Tendulkar scored his maiden Test century at this ground in 1990
- Team Changes: India faces injury concerns with Nitish Kumar Reddy ruled out and Arshdeep Singh missing the Manchester Test
Ground Information & Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Emirates Old Trafford (since 2013) |
| Location | Talbot Road, Stretford, Manchester, M16 0PX |
| Established | 1857 |
| Capacity | 22,000 (Test matches), 19,000 (domestic), 26,000 (international games) |
| End Names | James Anderson End (North), Brian Statham End (South) |
| Floodlights | Yes |
| Home Team | Lancashire County Cricket Club |
| Total Matches Hosted | 82 Test matches, 55 ODIs and 11 T20Is |
Historic Significance: Old Trafford holds the record for both most World Cup matches hosted (17) and most semi-finals hosted (5). The ground has hosted the ICC Cricket World Cup five times – 1975, 1979, 1983, 1999, and 2019.
Legendary Moments in Cricket History
Old Trafford has been the stage for some of cricket’s most iconic moments:
- 1956: Jim Laker achieved bowling figures of 19 wickets for 90 runs—a bowling record which is unmatched in Test and first-class cricket
- 1990: 17-year-old Sachin Tendulkar scored 119 not out against England, which was the first of his 100 international centuries
- 1993: Shane Warne bowled Mike Gatting with the “Ball of the Century”
TEST MATCH RECORDS & STATISTICS
Batting Records
| Record | Player/Team | Details | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highest Individual Score | Bob Simpson (Australia) | 311 runs off 743 balls vs England | 1964 |
| Highest Team Total | Australia | 656/8d | 1964 |
| Highest Partnership | Michael Vaughan (120) & Graham Thorpe (138) | 267-run partnership for 3rd wicket vs Pakistan | 2001 |
| Most Runs at Venue | Alec Bedser (England) | Note: Exact statistics for most runs by individual at venue not available in current sources | – |
| Total Centuries | Note: Specific century count at venue not available in current sources | – | – |
Bowling Records
| Record | Player/Team | Figures | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Bowling (Innings) | Jim Laker (England) | 10/53 vs Australia | 1956 |
| Best Bowling (Match) | Jim Laker (England) | 19/90 vs Australia | 1956 |
| Most Wickets at Venue | Alec Bedser (England) | 51 wickets in 7 matches (avg: 13.45) | – |
ODI RECORDS & STATISTICS
Batting Records
| Record | Player/Team | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Highest Individual Score | Viv Richards (West Indies) | 189* off 170 balls vs England (21 fours, 5 sixes) |
| Highest Team Total | Note: Specific highest ODI total not mentioned in available sources | – |
| Most Runs at Venue | Eoin Morgan (England) | 456 runs in 13 matches (SR: 109.87) |
| Highest Partnership | Alex Carey & Glen Maxwell (Australia) | 212 runs for 6th wicket vs England |
Bowling Records
| Record | Player/Team | Figures |
|---|---|---|
| Best Bowling Figures | Glen McGrath (Australia) | 5/14 vs West Indies (1999 World Cup) |
| Most Wickets at Venue | Bob Willis (England) | 15 wickets in 9 ODIs (economy: 2.78) |
Team Performance
- Total ODI Matches: 55 ODIs
- India’s Record: 11 ODIs – 5 wins, 6 losses
- Average Scores: 1st Innings – 279 runs, 2nd Innings – 262 runs
T20 & T20I RECORDS & STATISTICS
T20 International Records
| Record | Player/Team | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Highest Individual Score | KL Rahul (India) | 101* off 54 balls vs England (10 fours, 5 sixes) |
| Highest Team Total | England | 199/5 vs Pakistan |
| Best Bowling Figures | Kuldeep Yadav (India) | 5/24 vs England |
| Most Runs at Venue | Eoin Morgan (England) | 185 runs in 9 T20Is (avg: 23.12, SR: 160.86) |
| Most Wickets at Venue | Adil Rashid (England) | 11 wickets in 8 T20Is (avg: 19.27, economy: 8.15) |
| Highest Partnership | Jonny Bairstow & Harry Brook (England) | 131 runs for 3rd wicket vs New Zealand |
Domestic T20 Records
| Record | Player/Team | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Highest Individual Score | Lou Vincent (Lancashire) | 102* off 63 balls vs Derbyshire |
| Highest Team Total | Lancashire | 231/4 vs Yorkshire (2015 T20 Blast) |
| Lowest Team Total | Worcestershire | 53 all out vs Lancashire (2016) |
| Best Bowling Figures | Stephen Parry & Josh Little | 5/13 |
| Most Runs at Venue | Steven Croft | 1,952 runs (avg: 30.50, SR: 119.16) |
| Most Wickets at Venue | Stephen Parry (Lancashire) | 58 wickets in 55 matches (avg: 22.06, economy: 6.66) |
| Highest Partnership | Mal Loye & Brad Hodge (Lancashire) | 160 runs for 2nd wicket (2005) |
Match Statistics
- Total T20 Matches: 138 T20 matches since 2003
- Teams Batting First: Won 69 times out of 133 completed matches
- Average Scores: 1st Innings – 175 runs, 2nd Innings – 158 runs
PITCH CONDITIONS & PLAYING CHARACTERISTICS
Pitch Profile
The pitch is a paradise for batsmen in the first innings and so the team that wins the toss at Emirates Old Trafford Manchester Cricket ground usually decides to bat first. The surface offers:
- Early Days: Good for batting with trustable bounce
- As Match Progresses: The pitch gets slow as time passes and the ball does not come easily on the bat
- Assistance: Helps both pacers and spinners as the game develops
- Weather Factor: Old Trafford has a reputation for unpredictable weather
Weather & Conditions
Old Trafford is the only ground in England where a Test match has been abandoned without a ball being bowled—and this has happened here twice in 1890 and 1938. The ground faces prevailing winds from the Atlantic Ocean, making weather management crucial.
INDIA VS ENGLAND – 4TH TEST 2025
The Historic Battle Continues
The fourth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series is scheduled from July 23-27, 2025 at Old Trafford, Manchester. With England leading India 2-1, the fourth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series could prove decisive.
India’s Historical Challenge
Historical data reveals Old Trafford as India’s most difficult challenge in English conditions. The venue hosted nine previous Test matches between the nations since 1936, without yielding a single Indian victory. Statistics show four defeats and five draws across these encounters.
Key Facts About the Upcoming Test
- Series Status: England leads 2-1 in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy
- World Test Championship: The fourth Test is part of the ICC WTC 2025-27, currently in its initial stages
- Significance: A must-win scenario for India to keep series hopes alive
- Historic Context: Their connections to Old Trafford add significant meaning to this fixture. Anderson, England’s all-time leading wicket-taker, developed his skills at this ground as Lancashire’s stalwart. Tendulkar famously scored his maiden Test century here in 1990 as a 17-year-old prodigy
FACILITIES & MODERN FEATURES
Stadium Development
- Redevelopment: After Old Trafford lost test status in 2009, extensive redevelopment of the ground to increase capacity and modernise facilities saw the restoration of the pavilion and creation of The Point, a £12 million stand
- The Point: Modern conference centre and hospitality facility
- Drainage: Advanced drainage system installed to combat Manchester’s weather challenges
Transport & Accessibility
- Tram Access: The ground is served by the adjacent Old Trafford tram stop on the Manchester Metrolink’s Altrincham Line
- Proximity: Five-minute walk from Old Trafford Football Stadium
- Location: 2 miles southwest of Manchester city centre
WORLD CUP LEGACY
Old Trafford’s World Cup hosting record remains unmatched:
- World Cups Hosted: 5 editions (1975, 1979, 1983, 1999, 2019)
- Total World Cup Matches: 17 matches (record for most hosted)
- Semi-finals Hosted: 5 semi-finals (also a record)
- Memorable Moments: Including the 2019 India vs New Zealand semi-final
OLD TRAFFORD, MANCHESTER CAPACITY & DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS
Stadium Capacity & Configuration
| Event Type | Capacity | Configuration Details |
|---|---|---|
| Test Matches | 22,000 | With temporary stands erected |
| International Games | 26,000 | Full international configuration |
| Domestic Matches | 19,000 | Standard domestic setup |
| Concerts | 50,000 – 65,000 | With temporary stage and standing areas |
| Conference Events | 10 – 2,000 | Multi-purpose conference facilities |
Ground Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Emirates Old Trafford (sponsorship since 2013) |
| Address | Talbot Road, Old Trafford, Manchester M16 0PX |
| Established | 1857 |
| Home Team | Lancashire County Cricket Club (since 1864) |
| End Names | James Anderson End (North), Brian Statham End (South) |
| Floodlights | Yes – Modern LED floodlight system |
| Drainage | Advanced drainage system with hover cover |
| Pitch Orientation | North-South alignment (changed from East-West in 2010/11) |
Modern Facilities & Infrastructure
Major Facilities:
- The Point: £12 million conference centre (1,000-seat capacity)
- Hilton Garden Inn: 150-bedroom hotel (completed 2017, extended 2023)
- Media Centre: State-of-the-art facility opened in September 2012
- Indoor Cricket School: Training and practice facilities
- Executive Boxes: 9 executive boxes in the main Pavilion
- Members’ Pavilion: Historic pavilion with modern amenities
Accessibility Features:
- Level access around the venue
- Dedicated family and accessible entrance
- Accessible toilet facilities in all stand concourses
- RADAR key access to facilities
- Limited accessible parking (Car Park 3, Great Stone Road)
- Sensory Room in Player and Media Centre
Transportation & Access
Public Transport:
- Tram: Old Trafford stop on Altrincham Line (directly adjacent)
- Alternative Tram Stops: Firswood (10 min walk), Wharfside (15 min walk), Exchange Quay (20 min walk)
- Train Stations: Manchester Piccadilly, Deansgate Castlefield, Victoria (all with tram connections)
- Bus Services: 255, 256 from Piccadilly Gardens; 263, 250, X50 services available
Private Transport:
- Location: 2 miles southwest of Manchester city centre
- Proximity: 5-minute walk from Old Trafford Football Stadium
- Car Parks: Multiple on-site parking areas (North and West of ground)
- Cycling: 10 cycling bays under E Stand
Sustainability Initiatives
Emirates Old Trafford operates several sustainability projects including partnerships with City of Trees for local tree planting, eco-friendly takeaway containers, sustainable food provision training for catering staff, and comprehensive recycling programs. The venue aims to become fully net zero and deliver major events using sustainable practices.
HOW TO BUY TICKETS FOR EMIRATES OLD TRAFFORD
Official Ticket Purchasing Channels
Lancashire Cricket Club Official Store Tickets for all home fixtures at Emirates Old Trafford, including international tickets, can be bought online from Lancashire Cricket Club’s official online store at cricket.lancashirecricket.co.uk. This is the primary and most reliable source for all cricket tickets.
Contact Information for Ticket Assistance:
- General Ticket Enquiries: Phone lines open exclusively for Members from 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday
- Accessible Seating: Call 0161 876 2185 (9am-9pm Monday to Saturday, 10am-8pm Sundays) for wheelchair or accessible area tickets
- General Contact: 0161 282 4020 for event enquiries
- Email Support: ticketoffice@lancashirecricket.co.uk for accessible parking and ticket queries
Upcoming Major Fixtures (2025)
India vs England 4th Test (July 23-27, 2025) Day Three is already SOLD OUT, demonstrating high demand. Tickets for remaining days are available through official channels.
England vs South Africa T20I (September 12, 2025) International T20 fixture with tickets available through Lancashire Cricket’s official store.
Alternative Ticket Sources
Hospitality & Premium Experiences:
- Seat Unique: Official Partner powering Online Hospitality Sales for Lancashire Cricket, offering Century Lounge and Captains Club packages
- Eventmasters: For official hospitality packages call 0121 233 6500
- Premium Options: Executive boxes, VIP lounges, and hospitality suites with food and beverage packages
Resale Market:
- SeatPick: Trusted resale platform with 100% ticket guarantee, tickets starting from $72 for upcoming fixtures
- Barmy Army: Membership-based service (£47/year) offering priority ticket access for England cricket supporters
Ticket Categories & Pricing
Stand Options:
- Stand B: Alcohol-free family area
- Lightning Stand C: Near home dressing room, lively atmosphere
- Stand D (Party Stand): 16+ only, enhanced atmosphere with drinks allowed
- Stand E: Premium covered/uncovered seating with “Service to Seat” option
- Pavilion: Members and hospitality areas
Important Ticket Information
Payment & Policies:
- Emirates Old Trafford operates as a cashless venue, accepting only card and mobile payments
- ID required as proof of ownership, tickets may not be resold
- Group bookings available through most providers
Membership Benefits: 2025 Lancashire Cricket Membership provides access to international tickets and exclusive member benefits, including priority booking and discounts on food and beverages.
Accessibility: Dedicated accessible seating areas available with advance booking. The venue features level access, accessible toilets, RADAR key facilities, and a dedicated family entrance.
Tips for Securing Tickets
- Book Early: Major international fixtures sell out quickly, as evidenced by Day 3 of the India Test already being sold out
- Consider Membership: Lancashire Cricket membership provides priority access and better value
- Monitor Official Channels: Follow Emirates Old Trafford social media for ticket releases and availability updates
- Hospitality Options: For premium experiences, hospitality packages often have better availability than general admission
- Resale Market: Use trusted platforms like SeatPick for sold-out fixtures, but expect premium pricing
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the key details about Emirates Old Trafford cricket ground?
Emirates Old Trafford is located at Talbot Road, Stretford, Manchester, and was established in 1857. It has a capacity of 22,000 for Test matches and 19,000 for domestic games. The ground features the James Anderson End (North) and Brian Statham End (South), with modern floodlights and excellent drainage systems. It’s England’s second oldest Test venue after The Oval and has been Lancashire County Cricket Club’s home since 1864.
2. What makes Old Trafford unique in world cricket?
Old Trafford holds several world records: most World Cup matches hosted (17 matches) and most World Cup semi-finals hosted (5 semi-finals) across five World Cup editions (1975, 1979, 1983, 1999, 2019). It’s the only ground in England where Test matches have been abandoned without a ball being bowled (1890 and 1938). The venue also witnessed cricket’s greatest bowling performance – Jim Laker’s 19/90 in 1956, an unmatched record in Test cricket.
3. What are the pitch conditions and playing characteristics at Old Trafford?
The Old Trafford pitch is a batsman-friendly surface in the first innings with trustable bounce and carry. As the match progresses, it becomes slower and offers assistance to both pace and spin bowlers. The ground has unpredictable weather due to its location west of the Pennines, facing Atlantic weather fronts. Teams winning the toss typically choose to bat first, with average scores being 279 in ODIs and 175 in T20Is for first innings.
4. What are the most significant cricket records at Old Trafford?
Test Records: Bob Simpson’s 311 (highest individual score), Jim Laker’s 19/90 (best match bowling), Australia’s 656/8d (highest team total). ODI Records: Viv Richards’ *189 (highest individual score), Glen McGrath’s 5/14 (best bowling). T20 Records: KL Rahul’s *101 (highest T20I score), Kuldeep Yadav’s 5/24 (best T20I bowling). The ground has hosted 82 Test matches, 55 ODIs, and 11 T20Is.
5. Why is Old Trafford significant for India and what’s their record there?
Old Trafford holds special significance as the venue where 17-year-old Sachin Tendulkar scored his first international century (119) in 1990*. However, it’s been India’s most challenging venue with zero Test victories in 9 matches (4 defeats, 5 draws). In ODIs, India has a better record with 5 wins and 6 losses in 11 matches. The upcoming 4th Test (July 23-27, 2025) is crucial as England leads the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2-1.
6. What are the facilities and accessibility features at Old Trafford?
The ground underwent major redevelopment after 2009, creating modern facilities including The Point (£12 million conference center), restored pavilion, and improved drainage systems. It’s easily accessible via the Old Trafford tram stop on Manchester Metrolink’s Altrincham Line and is just a 5-minute walk from Old Trafford Football Stadium. The venue is 2 miles southwest of Manchester city center and can expand to 65,000 capacity for concerts, making it a multi-purpose entertainment venue.