Not so pitch perfect at Lambert Park
"Due to the recent lack of rains and the non-functional pump system at the grounds, the pitch could not be watered, which resulted in huge cracks on the pitch"
Cricket fans were in for a disappointment last week when the matches scheduled for the week and weekend were postponed. Umtshezi Cricket Association (UCA) had to adopt this decision due to factors beyond their control.
READ MORE HERE: UPDATE: Weekend cricket games at Lambert Park postponed
Last Tuesday, just two days before the debut games were meant to kick-off, the association’s executive committee assessed the cricket pitch at Lambert Park and deemed it unfit for play.
UCA’s Muneer Shaik explains why: “Due to the recent lack of rains and the non-functional pump system at the grounds, the pitch could not be watered, which resulted in huge cracks on the pitch.”
On Monday morning, the association was given good news from the groundsman at Lambert Park who informed them that the water pump had been repaired and the pitch was being watered, which would cause the pitch to bind, resulting in an adequate and safe playing surface.
READ THIS: Danger lurks at Lambert Park
Last week’s postponement has placed a dent in UCA’s ‘tight and congested fixture list’ but Mr Shaik explained that a meeting will be held today (Wednesday) with all team captains in order to slot in the games that were affected.
“Postponed fixtures will be slotted in with minimum impact to the league. It is unfortunate, as all clubs are extremely excited to get started. However, in the interest of player safety, the delay is understood,” explained Mr Shaik.
He added that the cricket association has also undertaken to repair ageing infrastructure at Lambert Park, substantiating that previously damaged sight screens are in the process of being upgraded.
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