3.2.1 Fielding side
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Umpires are satisfied that the
bowlers’ run-ups, footholds and
follow-throughs appear to be
safe, such that a bowler is able to
deliver the ball without slipping
or other risk of injury.
The safety of the areas for the
bowler’s feet in his take-off
stride, his delivery stride and
his follow-through strides
are particularly sensitive and
important. These areas can be
checked by each umpire with his
foot, by firmly placing his foot on
the ground to see if it slides or is
otherwise unstable.
The ground conditions do not
appear to be such as to deprive
the fielders of free movement
when fielding, or attempting to
field, the ball, ie they are free to
move, turn and run at broadly full
pace, without slipping or risking
other injuries. Ground conditions
can be tested in the same way as
the areas for the bowler’s feet.
There appears to be no surface
or standing water anywhere on
the playing area. Surface water
is defined as water that can
be seen on the surface of the
ground; standing water is that
visible when pressing one’s foot
into soft ground.
Similarly there appears to be no
surface or standing water on the
area immediately beyond the
boundary over which fielders may
need to pass as they endeavour
to field or catch the ball.
92018 ECB Ground Weather and Light.indd 9
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Areas of water must be
investigated and efforts made to
eliminate them and any danger
they pose. You might see if the
playing area can be modified.
Exceptionally, play may be
possible if the water is further
than 30 yards from the pitch,
not on the square and you are
absolutely convinced it will not
prevent fielders from having free
movement, or that any danger it
poses can be eliminated.
3.2.2 Batting side
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There appear to be secure
footholds around the popping
crease so that the batsman can
receive a delivery and can play
shots without fear of slipping or
other injury.
The ground appears to be firm
enough for the batsmen to set
off for a run without slipping or
other injury.
A batsman can run safely
between the wickets and turn
for subsequent runs.
In every case these areas can be
tested in the same way as the
areas for the bowler’s feet.
3.2.3 Both sides
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There appear to be no areas of
unfit ground that might cause
a risk of injury to any player or
umpire.
Used pitches and their creases
are often areas of particular
concern that require careful
attention and review.
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