Lancashire blame fans for turning up late with thousands left queuing outside Old Trafford as England and India began the fourth Test

Lancashire have blamed fans for turning up late after thousands were left queuing as the fourth Test got under way in Manchester.

Lines of people were snaking down Talbot Road and Brian Statham Way when play between England and India began at 11am, with ticket holders taking to social media to vent their frustration.

‘If you’re wondering why there’s gaps in the stands at Emirates Old Trafford,’ the Barmy Army posted on X, attaching a photograph of the well-populated streets.

Lancashire responded with a statement, saying: ‘We are aware that some supporters experienced queues getting into Emirates Old Trafford this morning, which we apologise for.

‘We saw nearly 9,000 supporters arrive at the ground very late despite encouraging early arrival, with all bags subject to searches on entry.

‘The club will be looking at increasing the number of gates for the rest of the Test match.

‘We strongly encourage ticket buyers to only bring bags if required, and if doing so to arrive as early as possible. Gates will be open at 9am for the rest of the game.’

The first four days of the penultimate game of the Rothesay Series are 21,500 sell-outs, but huge expanses of empty seats remained in the temporary stand into the afternoon session.

‘It shouldn’t be necessary to rock up three hours before the start of play. Absolutely shameful scenes at Old Trafford,’ one supporter blasted.

‘I turned up at Lord’s around 10.30am on day one and was inside the ground literally within two minutes.’

A social media user named PitchedOutsideLeg added: ‘Arrived Old Trafford 09:45. Still way back in huge queue moving slower than a snail's pace. Have paid over £100 for ticket. Several breweries in and around Stretford and Salford nearby. Hopefully whoever has orchestrated this hasn't also organised drinks there later.’