Sunderland midfielder Craig Gardner, who was part of the Black Cats side that lost the tournament final on Saturday, sent out a warning to United players about the condition of the pitch, with David Moyes' side already refusing to train on the pitch in fear of picking up injuries ahead of the new season.
But consultants concluded "that the current condition of the pitch is a result of a combination of weather, use and the timing of the pitch having to be laid in November".
Asked about the condition of the pitch, Moore said: "It wasn't a ploy.
He draws on information he has about the pace and style of the bowler, the condition of the pitch, and his own form.
It's not for a lack of trying either, the game has been called off twice already due to the condition of the pitch at The Valley.
The disposition of the field will vary widely according to the technique of the bowler or of the batsman, the condition of the pitch, the state of the game, and the tactics determined by the captain.
"Our intention was to assess the condition of the pitch after our first summer of concerts with a view to replacing it in time for our autumn run of football and rugby events," said the head grounds manager, Steve Welch.
Typically, Pedro Mendes, Rangers' orchestrator, was the one trying to play subtle passes, but the condition of the pitch and the competitiveness in his area of expertise made it difficult for the Portuguese to produce his most artistic work.
The condition of the pitch didn't help us but Lille threw everything at us and we defended really well against a very strong team, who will finish the season strongly despite their form at the moment".
The last three innings at Old Trafford have produced scores of 63, 62 and 159 - Lancashire's first innings here with Tom Smith top-scoring with 35 not out – leading to questions about the condition of the pitch.
