2.2 Clubs with ground staff, covers etc
If he is available, the groundsman
will be a valuable ally. Forming
a positive relationship with him
on arrival at the ground will offer
significant help if interruptions to
the game occur. Demonstrating
this working relationship to the
players and club officials should
mean the potential for stronger
relationships throughout the
umpires’ appointment. As a guide,
the following information should be
gleaned from the groundsman:
•
•
•
•
•
Local weather knowledge and
the current forecast.
The covering facilities available
for the match and the level of
support available to put the
covers on and to remove them.
The drying characteristics of
the venue and any equipment/
strategies available to assist, if
necessary.
The difficulties in pitch
preparation, eg the weather
effect, time, and other areas
of concern.
The mowing and rolling
requirements for the match.
This information will assist the
umpires in discussing relevant
scenarios and making plans for
eventualities that might arise. Such
groundwork is never wasted: it will
make it easier to implement the
umpires’ plans at the appropriate
time and, if shared promptly and
clearly with players/staff, should be
accepted by all involved.
2.3 Clubs without ground staff and/
or covers etc
Umpires in the recreational game
will stand at grounds that range from
local-authority owned/prepared
playing fields, which often have no
additional facilities or support in the
event of inclement weather, to clubs
that have most of what would be
expected at a county ground.
The clubs and players at the lower
levels of the game may be more
willing to play despite poor weather
conditions. For many of them,
the match is their day a week of
recreational sport, something they
enjoy and do not want to give up
unless it is absolutely necessary.
However at all levels, players may
be keen to get the game underway
depending upon the importance of
the match to their team.
The challenge facing the umpires
remains the same. If either umpire
believes there is an actual and
foreseeable risk of injury to the
players or umpires, then the
conditions are dangerous and play
should not be allowed.
The preparation and planning
mentioned above, albeit without a
groundsman or covers, still applies.
It is still just as helpful: 1) to know
what is likely to happen; 2) to know
what the umpires’ options might be;
3) for the umpires to work closely
together; and 4) to listen to relevant
comments of the captains and
players.
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