MCC calls for cork-popping ceasefire at Lord's

London - Marylebone Cricket Club has implored spectators at Lord's to stop firing champagne corks onto the field of play during matches.

Lord's is the only international cricket ground where patrons can bring in their own alcohol and it has become customary for fans to aim corks onto the pitch when they open their champagne.

But on the eve of England's second one-day international against Pakistan at Lord's, the MCC, which owns the ground, has urged its members to put an end to the tradition.

"In recent times the practice of some members and other spectators opening bottles of champagne in such a way as to allow corks to be projected onto the outfield has been criticised," the MCC said in a newsletter on Friday.

"Any items which are aimed at the playing area may cause a potential hazard to fieldsmen and this point has been made formally to the club.

"Lord's is now the only ground into which members and ticket holders are allowed to bring alcohol, and in order for this arrangement to continue it is important that all members, their guests and other spectators refrain from the practice that has been described."