THE THIRD TEST.

Manawatu Standard, Volume IV, Issue 222, 20 August 1931, Page 6

THE THIRD TEST.

The fact that there was only three hours’ play in the third ci'icket Test at Manchester is a sharp disappointment not alone for the players and the enthusiasts in New Zealand, but also for the Dominion Cricket Council. The first named have lost their opportunity to avenge their inings defeat in /the second trial of strength; enthusiasts have been deprived of the feeling of expectancy in following the fortunes of the two teams, and to the Council has been lost the monetary return which fine weather would have made available. A city with a very high average rainfall, Manchester fully lived up to its reputation over the week-end, the flooded state of the ground being evidence of the incessant downpour which early dashed hopes of play to the ground. The famous ground was, in fact, described as a scene of desolation, the “velvety turf being an area of miniature lakes.” Though there has been talk of a fourth Test to compensate _ the New Zealanders for their disappointment, which is shared by the English people, the possibility of arranging l a suitable date seems remote. A suggestion worthy of consideration is that the English team to visit Australia in 1932-33 should, when the tour ends, proceed to New Zealand and play at least two matches here.