View from Lord's media centre by the payne
The first Ashes test begins today, but what with television rights to the series now gobbled up entirely by Sky, those without a subscription to Murdoch's empire are sh*t out of luck when it comes to watching at home. Fortunately, this being a summer event and all, there are screens around the city where you can catch all the action.
It should prove to be a compelling series — the last one in 2005 certainly was, though conspicuous by its absence in most pre-series commentary has been the Down Under debacle of 06/07 when England were torn apart by an ageing Aussie squad whose wounded pride was out for revenge. It's now Englands turn to restore some sporting joy to the nation, but are they up to the job?
The screens are at the following locations — if you know of any more, let us know and we'll add them:
For dates, see the full Ashes schedule, and follow live coverage on the BBC