LANCASHIRE today saluted Mike Atherton for helping then beat the Billy Joel blues.

Old Trafford staff were stunned yesterday morning, when after months of preparation, Joel's throat infection forced the cancellation of his concert with Elton John.

But Atherton's first Test century for 15 months at Edgbaston, was a handsome consolation.

Lancashire cricket secretary Dave Edmondson said: "There was a lot of gloom and despondency around Old Trafford yesterday, but it was lifted by Athers's century.

"The chief executive had organised a bit of a party for the staff to say thank you for all the hard work they had put in. And we were all able to watch Athers on the TV.

"It was great stuff, and we faxed him immediately to congratulate him, and say how much we had appreciated it."

Lancashire were hoping to make around £50,000 from the concert, but are confident of recouping the money they have already spent on insurance, following discussions with the promoters today.

They were offered one alternative date, when Joel pulled out - July 4. But that crashes with the Old Trafford Test between England and South Africa.

"it was a lost opportunity for Old Trafford, from the point of view of portraying the stadium as an alternative venue," added Edmondson.

Meanwhile in Northampton, Lancashire were made to toil in the absence of injured skipper Wasim Akram.

They had Northants in early trouble at 73 for four in reply to 230 but Mal Loye, fresh from a treble century in Northants' last Championship game, added another classy ton, and the home team resumed today on 248 for five, already 18 runs ahead.

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