HAMPSHIRE groundsman Karl McDermott has landed the top job at Lord’s.

McDermott, who arrived at The Ageas Bowl in 2009 as deputy head groundsman to Nigel Gray, has prepared the wickets for all three of the ground’s three Test matches since being appointed head groundsman in 2011.

He replaces Mick Hunt, who is retiring after 49 seasons at the home of cricket.

McDermott spent 17 seasons at Clontarf Cricket Club in Dublin, and moved to the Ageas Bowl after two seasons as assistant groundsman at Worcestershire.

He became head groundsman in 2016 and leaves on a high after the e England’s recent victory over India at West End.

John Stephenson, MCC Assistant Secretary (Cricket) and a former Hampshire captain, said: “After a rigorous recruitment process, we're delighted that Karl has accepted the role of head groundsman at Lord’s.

“He's very well respected throughout the game, having spent the past nine years producing top quality pitches at the Ageas Bowl. Karl emerged from a competitive field as someone who will be able to maintain the reputation of Lord’s as the ultimate ground at which cricketers of all levels wish to play.

“His first season will be a challenging one, with five World Cup matches including the final, Ireland’s inaugural Test match at Lord’s as well as the prospect of England facing Australia in an Ashes Series. But we have no doubt that he will prove himself up to the task.”