The Groundsman: Preparing for the worst

Following a winter where unprecedented rainfall and a series of storms led to widespread flooding and destruction, David Bates, MD of cricket pitch specialist total-play, shares his advice on how to minimise damage when the worst happens…

With extreme weather events becoming ever more common during the off-season, the best advice I can give – whether faced with wind, wet weather, flooding or snow and ice is to be prepared.

In many cases it’s a case of using common sense to carry out some simple tasks at the end of the season that could save thousands of pounds worth of damage.

Sightscreens are particularly susceptible to wind – remove the slats, move to a more sheltered area or turn so they’re not going to catch the prevailing wind. Changing or strapping down frames will anchor them and prevent them toppling.

Mobile pitch covers should have PVC tarps removed and the metal frames be stowed together, raised on bricks, to prevent rubber wheels perishing. Ground and flat sheets should be thoroughly cleaned according to manufacturer’s guidelines, dried and stowed away in their prescribed bags – ideally off the ground to avoid vermin damage.

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When it comes to flooding, at the fi rst risk of inundation get any stowed gear out of sheds and areas at risk and stored on higher ground. The aftermath of flooded fine turf pitches can be severe due to debris, stones & other contaminants. Depending on how quickly the water subsides, silt can be left on the surface and cause major issues – ‘capping off ’ gaps in the soil and aff ecting the health of the grass.

To reduce effects, as soon as water levels go down but before fully dissipated, drag-mat the playing surface to agitate silt – and help prevent a contaminate layer forming.

With the worst-case scenario now looking likely to happen on a regular basis, preparation is more important than ever and should be undertaken as soon as playing season finishes.

Got a question for our expert groundsman? Let us know at magazine@thecricketer.com

During his residency at Northants CCC, David Bates gained a reputation for preparing some of the finest pitches in the country. Having worked as a pitch advisor and trainer for the Institute of Groundsmanship, David now heads up total-play Ltd – which designs and installs class-leading non-turf cricket pitches and pitch cover solutions, and sports pitch consultancy Total Turf Solutions.

For more information, visit www.total-play.co.uk or call 01604 864 575