1 ECB EXTREME HEAT GUIDELINES FOR THE RECREATIONAL GAME JUNE 2026
This document provides general guidance to those managing, participating or working in recreational cricket in England and Wales where extreme weather events might occur.
Extreme Heat
Overview
Cricket is routinely played in the hottest months of the year. Everyone involved should always consider the risks associated with participating, spectating or officiating in hot and / or sunny and / or humid conditions. Particular care should be taken when amber or red extreme heat warnings are in place.
Extreme heat conditions are those that are hotter and / or more humid than normal local summer thresholds. Much higher temperatures are now being experienced in the UK, with temperatures of 40 ° C experienced across the country in recent years.
Local conditions on the ground also need to be considered in addition to weather forecasts: each cricket ground will have its own degree of‘ stillness’, available shade, and radiant heat properties, which may generate even higher temperatures in the shade.
Dangers of Heat
Overheating is a risk for all participants, but particularly for players bowling at pace or batting for prolonged periods( especially with protective equipment).
Heat-related illnesses, like heat exhaustion or heatstroke, happen when the body is not able to cool itself properly. In these cases, a person’ s body temperature rises faster than it can cool itself. The impact of high temperatures can be made worse by increased humidity and a high UV index.
The NHS suggests that heat exhaustion does not usually need emergency medical help if you can cool down within 30 minutes.
Signs of heat exhaustion include:
• tiredness,
• dizziness,
• headache,
• feeling sick or being sick,
• excessive sweating,
• pale and clammy skin,
• heat rash,
• cramps in the arms, legs and stomach,