Moores happy to return to Abu Dhabi

Peter Moores poses at Le Royal Meridien Hotel in Abu Dhabi early last December

Newly-appointed head coach Peter Moores knows from recent experience that the United Arab Emirates is an ideal location for Lancashire to step up preparations for the domestic season.

The Red Rose are one of six counties - along with Yorkshire, Sussex, Essex, Surrey and Middlesex - involved in next month’s Emirates Airline Pro ARCH Trophy.

Last year’s runners-up to rivals Yorkshire begin their campaign against Sussex at the Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, on March 19 before facing Essex and a Fly Emirates XI at the Sharjah Stadium. A potential play-off game then awaits.

Former England coach Moores, who officially takes up his new role on March 1, spent several days training in Abu Dhabi at the beginning of December on England’s return to India for the Test series.

Moores & Co had cut short the one-day series in India and travelled back to the UK following the terrorist attacks in Mumbai in late November.

Moores, who will be without the likes of Andrew Flintoff and James Anderson, said: “The UAE offers the perfect warm weather climate to test the players’ physical fitness, and the compact playing schedule against strong opposition will test their mental toughness.

“I was recently in Abu Dhabi with the England team, and I know the training and playing facilities are excellent. The popularity of cricket is growing rapidly in this part of the world, and we look forward to receiving the support of local residents and ex-pats from the north-west.”

The 46-year-old will come up against former county Sussex, whom he played for and coached, for the first time since leaving Hove.

The two sides have recent history with Sussex pipping Lancashire to the 2007 LV County Championship Division One title. A year earlier they beat Lancs in an exciting C&G Trophy final at Lord’s.

“It’s ironic that Lancashire have been drawn in the same group as my former county, Sussex. And considering the rivalry that has developed over recent years, I’m sure both sets of players will be looking for an early season victory,” he added.

Peter Moores will be without the likes of Andrew Flintoff

“Although we will be missing several players because of international and overseas commitments, we are still bringing a very talented squad.”

Moores admits it would be nice for Lancashire to go one better than last year but realises this is not the be-all-and-end-all.

“Of course it would be great to win the Trophy, however our focus will be on producing strong individual and team performances,” he continued.

“This 10-day trip will enable me to build a relationship with the players both on and off the field, and give me a better understanding of everyone’s strengths and abilities.”