It’s been some time since I went to any Test match. It was a lovely surprise when my Christmas presents last December included tickets to the Edgbaston Ashes Test in July

I drove to Birmingham, left the car in the small basement car park of the Pentahotel on Ernest Street and walked to the cricket grounds. I could have taken the bus but they were all packed with fans on their way to Edgbaston. There were not many taxis about either. At the grounds, tickets and bags were checked and I was shown to my seat.The game was already in progress and the crowds were gentle and subdued. As the day went on, more beer was drunk, Australia struggled and the crowds got boisterous. It was good fun though and the cricket was absorbing. Lunch was fish & chips with more beer. The Aussies were bowled out in the afternoon and as England went about the business of collecting the hundred odd runs needed for victory, it was obvious that this Test was going to be a two and a half day affair.

England players after the game