Following criticism of the Headingley pitch for the recent Test Match, Yorkshire's Chief Executive Chris Hassell was quick to exonerate Head Groundsman, Andy Fogarty from any blame.

The same pitch was used for two matches in last year's World Cup (50 overs) and produced outstanding results when Pakistan 275-8 beat Australia 265 by 10 runs and Australia 272-5 beat South Africa 271-7 with two balls remaining.

In 1998 the strip produced a gripping encounter with England victorious over South Africa by 23 runs at 11.28 on the fifth day when over 10,000 spectators piled in to witness England clinch the Test series.

The pitch in question has therefore performed well in recent years and due credit should be extended to the England bowlers (two of them Yorkshiremen) for an outstanding display of swing bowling.

For more information please contact:

Chris Hassell, Chief Executive, YCCC on:

(o) 0113 2033604