Graveney is weary of the Old Trafford Test being marred by low attendances.

The last two to be staged in Manchester, against New Zealand and West Indies, were poorly attended.

As a result Old Trafford has been overlooked for the more prestigious Ashes series.

Lancashire lodged a complaint to the England and Wales Cricket Board about the decision.

They insist they enjoyed the next biggest attendances behind Lord's last time Australia visited in 1997.

England go to Old Trafford on the verge of winning their fifth successive series for the first time since 1969-71 and having suffered only one Test defeat in their last 11 matches.

Graveney hopes this type of form will encourage fans to come out in force and show the same kind of support seen during the first Test.

"After what happened at Lord's it would be very disappointing if the crowd did not come out and support them," explained Graveney.

"Anyone in sport recognises that if you don't produce the goods then people are not going to watch.

"But it would be particularly disappointing with the good run we have had if the north-west public did not come out to support us."

Lancashire are also hoping that the return of Pakistan all-rounder Wasim Akram, who spent 10 years as their overseas player, will be a local draw.