LORD’S Cricket Ground has been left barely recognisable after the grass was ripped up as part of an incredible transformation.
The London venue is one of the world’s most iconic grounds and is viewed as the “home of cricket”.
Lord’s has been host to some of the most memorable moments in cricket.
This includes England’s famous World Cup victory over New Zealand in 2019.
It was also the setting for legendary bowler James Anderson to take his 500th Test wicket in September 2017.
However, it does not appear anywhere near ready to host any cricket anytime soon.
Pictures have emerged of the ground without its hallowed turf and looking more like a dirtbike track.
The ground looks barely recognisable as video shows – though the instantly recognisable pavilion and media centre can be seen.
The work is part of the ground renovation of the outfield over the autumn months.
It is the first time in 23 years that this has happened, and pieces of the old turf are being sold off for £50 a piece.
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Proceeds from the sales will be reinvested into the stadium as well as 10 per cent being donated to the MCC Foundation’s Global Refugee Cricket Fund.
The process requires the top 15mm of the turf to be stripped, with fresh seed being laid.
The aim is for the drainage to be improved and provide a better surface for cricket moving forward.
The work is due to run until February 2026.
The last match to take place on the old turf was the County Championship fixture between Middlesex and Gloucestershire
Middlesex stormed to victory by an innings and 67 runs after a brilliant batting performance from Leus du Plooy as he scored 263 runs.
England won their first Cricket World Cup at Lord’s[/caption]
James Anderson took his 500th Test wicket on the hallowed turf[/caption]
Meanwhile, Lord’s has been confirmed as one of the venues for the 2027 and 2031 Ashes series against Australia.
The next series is set to take place down under with the opening Test at Optus Stadium in Perth starting on November 21.
Ben Stokes‘ side will be hoping to win back the famous urn from the Aussies.
The last series ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw in England with the touring side retaining the trophy.
The last time that England lifted the urn was in 2015 as Sir Alastair Cook‘s side won the series 3-2 on home soil.
Home Ashes venues
Here is a look at the venues for the next two Ashes’ series in England.
Ashes Test venues for 2027
- Lord’s (London)
- The Oval (London)
- Trent Bridge (Nottingham)
- The Ageas Bowl (Southampton)
- Edgbaston (Birmingham)
Ashes Test venues for 2031
- Lord’s (London)
- The Oval (London)
- Trent Bridge (Nottingham)
- Old Trafford (Manchester)
- Headingley (Leeds)
Women’s Ashes Test venues
- 2027 – Headingley (Leeds)
- 2031 – Ageas Bowl (Southampton)
