Cricket Test Match Venues - Summer 2020

[Sylvie]

Why were all test matches and one day matches only played at either Southampton or Manchester this Summer. Why were Lords, Oval, Headingley, Trent Bridge, Edgebaston and others not used?

[jim360]

Covid-related. There wasn't much point in going to different grounds in terms of attracting audiences, since none were allowed; and less travel makes it easier for the teams to stay isolated and in one place.

[Sylvie]

Thanks for clarifying that Jim. Much appreciated.

[Mozz71]

That's why they kept on talking about the "bubble". They've all been isolating together, teams, officials, ground staff, commentators. Easier to do more in a single stadium than to travel.

It's the same theory as F1 doing two races at a venues or the Champions/Europa leagues playing all remaining games in the same place.

[Buenchico]

The Aegeas Bowl and Old Trafford were the only two available venues with on-site hotels (which were necessary to keep the players and officials isolated in their 'bubbles):

https://www.ageasbowl.com/hotel/

https://cricket.lancashirecricket.co.uk/hotel/