Love in the air at Old Trafford as Lancashire prepare for new season

A bitterly cold day in Salford is a world away from cricket’s World Cup down under, but Lanky, a seven foot tall giraffe is right at home.

That’s because he’s the official mascot of Lancashire Cricket Club, the Red Rose county, and he’s allowed out on the most romantic weekend of the year.

His task was to hand over red roses (what else?) to promote his famous home as a venue for civil as well as cricketing partnerships.

Braving the elements, alongside the well-padded star, were Lancashire’s new captain Tom Smith and his deputy Steven Croft.

After his wedding in December, Smith jokes he now has two loves in his life…cricket, and Mrs Smith (obviously).

Smith said: “Being captain is a dream job. Lancashire is a huge club, with global appeal. It’s such an honour to have been chosen.

Vice-captain Croft admitted: “It gets a bit tedious in the indoor nets.

“You’re just keen to get back into the swing of things, work on some technical stuff and get some sun on your back.

“We’re now just looking forward to next month’s pre-season tour.”

Lanky and his two official helpers dished out dozen of red roses during a lively lunchtime session.

Lancashire followers will hope the county blossoms again this summer.

New head coach Ashley Giles, along with his captain and vice-captain, will be keen on an immediate return to Division One of the county championship.

Last summer Lancashire were relegated, 12 months after being promoted back to the top flight.

Lanky is, I’m sure, extremely confident of a successful summer - but obviously a giraffe can’t talk. He can only nod in approval.