First day of the Test

In the course of the day I was asked if any cricket ground compares to Lords and the simple answer is no.

I like the cockpit that is Trent Bridge but the Oval is too cramped and the other Test grounds in the north have become soulless, more venues dedicated to cash generation than traditional cricket arenas.

Lords has always married old and new architecture brilliantly.

With the Nursery and Harris Gardens  there is ample space to enjoy a touch of greenery.

Then there is the famous Lords hum. A hum of expectation in the morning becoming more raucous during the day.

It’s the only ground where you can bring your own alcohol. That atmosphere and some of the stroke-play of Sharma were worth the steep admission money (£158) alone.

It’s time and place to meet old friends.

One of my many objections to the Hundred is its motto that something happens with every ball.

I enjoy spells where nothing happens as it did yesterday. You can take a comfort break, visit the bar or just chew the cud with your neighbour, all of which I did.

As for the cricket, England suffered by bowling too many balls not at the stumps which Sharma and Rahul could leave.

You frequently hear the criticism – particularly from the more senior cricket writers – that the white ball format, where you have to go for your shots, has adversely affected the Test batter who has to be more selective.

Sharma in particular has an impressive white ball average but he built the platform patiently all morning. In the afternoon he was more expansive and as the sun set over Lords between 6pm and close of play we saw the elegance of centurion Rahul.

I walk to and from Lords through Regents Park.

I do this partly for the exercise because I eat and drink too much during the day but also it’s a park of many memories and much beauty.

Gosh I was pleased to be back.