It can't be a draw, but it was.

[Sonyme]

I was reminiscing with a couple of fellow oldies about cricket and we all know it happened but can't agree why.

Before the war England were touring South Africa and the final test had no finishing date - it was to be played to a finish so it couldn't be drawn but the match was drawn.

We can't agree between imminent outbreak of WWII, English players had to be back in UK for start of season, S A players had to return to clubs for vital matches.

Are any of us right? if not what was the reason?

[Rancher]

I believe it was simply because the England touring party had no more time before they had to leave to board the ship for their return home. The match had already lasted 10 days by that time.

[Sonyme]

Thankyou for that - it was one reason we hadn't considered.

[Sonyme]

Thanks Steve, two interesting articles, I didn't realise that that test was an eight ball over match.

[jno]

I think the final test in a series was often allowed to keep going until it was won and lost, if the series so far was tied. But ships' schedules did take precedence.