The Groundsman: An evolution of non-turf pitches

In the first of a two-part column, the former first-class groundsman and MD of cricket pitch specialist total-play Ltd David Bates looks at how non-turf cricket pitches have evolved over the decades…

For many years, the artificial or non-turf cricket pitch (NTP) has been a huge benefit to schools, clubs and the professional game.

The game and industry owe a huge debt to original designer and creator, Peter Drury. However, it would also be fair to state that both materials and systems have evolved significantly over the past 40 years.

In the early days, a simple ‘batting end’ enabling some practice in unfavourable weather conditions was desirable – in modern era, huge bespoke multi-lane facilities are required to fulfil both usage and health and safety requirements.

Performance expectations have also changed in line with the fast and hard-hitting modern game – a key turning point being the 2007 introduction of the ECB’s ‘Performance Standards for NonTurf Cricket Pitches Intended for Outdoor Use (TS6)’.

It is now essential that clubs seeking funding select a supplier whose system meets this essential criteria.

But even with performance standards in place, not all non-turf pitches are created equal – and indeed, nor should they be.

There is a need for a ‘horses for courses’ approach, with different specifications of base and other components suited to installations based on site geography, budgetary and performance criteria.

In the next column in this series, I’ll look at how different solutions suit different clubs and how this has influenced the development of total-play’s six ECB-approved non-turf system designs; offering useful insight to clubs researching the installation of a new non-turf facility.

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 IoG David now heads up totalplay Ltd where he has developed class-leading non-turf cricket pitch and pitch cover solutions

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