The Groundsman - No.8: Making your pitch winter-proof

With winter on the horizon, MD of total-play Ltd and former first-class groundsman David Bates shares his tips on ensuring your ground equipment survives the worst of the weather

OK, so you've been busy with those vital end-of-season works on the pitch - now's the time to put your feet up and relax, right?

Not quite – time spent now checking and safely stowing your cricket ground equipment you'll save time – and money – at the start of next season. Here's my hit-list of tasks to carry out before the bad weather hits…

Mobile pitch covers

• Remove PVC cover tops & printed banners and store away
• Chain frames together and secure them to reduce the chance of them moving in high winds

Flat sheet ground covers

• Lay cover out flat and clean it using a soft brush and water – avoid detergents
• Examine carefully for any damage; if damage free allow it to dry thoroughly and store, ideally in a protection bag or sleeve, in a dry frost-free place, raised off the ground and out of sunlight 
• If damaged, check manufacturer's guidelines – small repairs may be sorted on site using a repair kit but more severe damage will need professional attention. Booking it in to be fixed now will avoid the rush at the start of next season.

Sightscreens

• High winds are the main risk to sightscreens – at the very least, position in a sheltered area on site, secured away from prevailing winds
• If your model has removable mesh panels or planks it's worth taking the time to take them off now, rather than regret a damaged screen later

Mobile batting cages

• Again, wind is the enemy. Remove the netting from the frames and store out of reach of vermin
• Store frames be in a sheltered part of the site, chaining to avoid unwanted movement

Non turf practice facilities

• Remove batting curtains, advertising banners and anything else attached to netting
• Inspect netting for any damage
• Depending on manufacturer's recommendation, remove and store netting
• Brush surface lightly to remove debris weekly to prevent a build-up of organic matter
• Do not attempt to rectify any issues with surface levels or carpet damage yourself: seek professional advice

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