In spite of the poor weather forecast for the weekend all games were able to be completed between showers and luckily the thunder that was due to happen didn’t arrive.
A few games were halted for a couple of overs while a heavy shower went by and DLS was used to achieve new targets. Others continued in light drizzle which umpires will allow providing conditions don’t become unsafe or unreasonable. No one likes being out there getting soaking wet.
Games can start or recommence in light rain should the umpires deem it to be safe, but the problem arises when thunder and lightning are about.
Luckily the umpires didn’t have to worry about that on Saturday, but what are they to do if it does occur? Umpires are to follow the ECB guidelines regarding play or the safety aspects of playing while thunder and lightning is around. The umpires are to take players off the field immediately the thunder and lightning appear close, for example 30 seconds between flash of lightning and clap of thunder, and stay off for 30 minutes after the last thunderclap. That is for pure safety reasons.
Players should not rush to put metal covers on as covers with metal pieces should not be used as the metal acts as a conductor. Umpires must err on the side of safety as who knows where lightning may strike and it’s too late if someone is hit.
The use of covers is important and many clubs now have roll on, roll off covers which are easy to manoeuvre. But clubs forget the bowlers run-ups as some covers only cover the 22-yard pitch length and it is often the run-ups that cause the umpires concern regarding safety to play.
Water does tend to get under these covers due to the wind. All NWCL clubs are to have covers, whether roll on, roll off ones or suitable sheets to put on. It is the roll of the home team to do this, but depending on the state of the game sometimes the opposition will help out.
Without suitable covers, play would be impossible at times knowing our summer weather!
Share