Lancashire Cricket Legends Honored with Stand Naming at Old Trafford

In a significant tribute to two of its most celebrated players, Lancashire County Cricket Club has announced that sections of the B Stand at Old Trafford will be named after Sir Clive Lloyd and Farokh Engineer. This honor is set to take place during the test match between England and India, marking a momentous occasion for cricket fans and the club alike.

Sir Clive Lloyd, who captained the West Indies team, and Farokh Engineer, a prominent wicketkeeper-batsman for both Lancashire and India, joined the club in the 1960s, shortly after English counties began signing overseas players. Their contributions were pivotal in establishing Lancashire as a dominant force in limited-overs cricket during the 1970s, a period often referred to as the 'kings of one-day cricket.'

The B Stand, situated next to the club's media center, will have its upper tier named in honor of Lloyd and its lower tier after Engineer. This decision reflects their enduring legacy and the affection with which they are remembered by fans and the cricketing community.

Both players were instrumental in Lancashire's success, with Lloyd scoring a remarkable 126 runs in the 1972 Gillette Cup final against Warwickshire. Engineer, who played 175 matches over nine seasons, accumulated an impressive 5,942 runs, while also contributing significantly behind the stumps with 429 catches and 35 stumpings. Lloyd, during his 18 seasons with the club, scored 12,764 runs, including 30 first-class centuries.

As one of the few clubs to successfully integrate overseas talent into its ranks, Lancashire's strategy allowed it to capitalize on the evolving nature of limited-overs cricket. The 1970s saw the arrival of international stars, with Lloyd and Engineer exemplifying the flair and competitiveness that characterized that era.

The naming ceremony for the B Stand sections is set to commence before the start of play, with both players in attendance, offering fans a chance to celebrate their contributions to the sport. This honor adds to a series of accolades that have recognized the achievements of cricketing legends at Old Trafford, including previous recognitions for fast bowlers James Anderson and Brian Statham.

This event not only commemorates Lloyd and Engineer’s contributions but also serves as a reminder of the rich history of cricket in Lancashire and the importance of honoring those who have significantly impacted the game. As the club continues to evolve, the legacy of these two cricketing icons will undoubtedly inspire future generations of players and fans alike.

In conclusion, the tribute to Sir Clive Lloyd and Farokh Engineer encapsulates the spirit of cricket and the profound impact these players had on the game. The naming of the B Stand is a fitting acknowledgment of their storied careers and a celebration of the vibrant cricketing culture at Old Trafford.