Just nine months earlier, Cayne was on the bridge circuit when two Bear Stearns hedge funds collapsed from significant losses on subprime mortgage securities, igniting the crisis on Wall Street.

FORBES: Next Up In Washington: Bear Stearns

Authorities also set up manned checkpoints at the circuit's five bridge crossings, and cyclists reported police checking their jerseys for entry numbers.

WSJ: Security Tight for Bikers Through New York's Five Boroughs

Its sudden elevation in status over Chester-le-Street and Trent Bridge, in particular, remains the subject of much rancour on the circuit and we all hope that the venue proves its worth as host of the opening Test of this much anticipated series.

BBC: Jonathan Agnew column