Barnes backs Paterson for Lord's slope

FOR cricket enthusiasts, a visit to Lord’s is more than just a day at the cricket; it is the culmination of dreams nourished over countless hours spent watching games unfold on television.

- ZAAHIER ADAMS

The iconic ground, often referred to as the “Home of Cricket,” is steeped in history and offers an array of unique features, from the Father-Time weather vane to the Members Pavilion and the futuristic Media Centre.

Yet, nothing captivates bowlers’ minds like the revered Lord’s slope, a challenge that can make or break a game. “It is indeed a real thing,” explained former Proteas bowling coach Vincent Barnes in an exclusive interview with Independent Media. “The sheer size of it stuns you when you see it for the first time, especially if you are a bowler who hasn't bowled there before.

“Even when you have been away for a while, and you go back there, it's something new to you and takes a while to adjust. As I hadn't played at Lord’s, I always did plenty of research prior to our tours to England, calling out someone like Shaun Pollock, and he would give me plenty of advice. But definitely, the slope is a real thing.”