A glowing report from the International Cricket Council (ICC) has resulted in The Rose Bowl receiving official ICC approval to stage international cricket.

The report compiled by Clive Lloyd CBE (past captain of both West Indies and Lancashire) states that the condition of the square and the outfield are of international standard.

Other areas, including the players' changing rooms and umpires' facilities are considered by Mr.Lloyd to be very modern and well up to the required standards' with the indoor nets of the Cricket Academy being given the accolade 'probably the best on the circuit'.

The report also acknoeledges The Rose Bowl's ability to provide 2,000 meals daily, 'quickly and competently' with Mr.Lloyd stating that he was 'very impressed with the standard of food served'.

Aware of the recent problems concerning pitch performance, the report recognises there is ongoing dialogue between the Club and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), but Mr.Lloyd concludes his report by recommending the Hampshire Rose Bowl as an International venue.

Commenting on the report, Rose Bowl chairman, Rod Bransgrove, said: "We are naturally delighted by this report and Clive Lloyd's obvious enthusiasm and amiration for all the facilities at The Rose Bowl.

"This is another major step forward and we are now eager to finalise staging agreement discussions with the ECB with the aim of receiving final approval for a One Day International match next year."

© Hampshire Web Site