Men's Test Match Clause 10: Covering the Pitch

Covering the Pitch

• 10.1. Before the matchThe use of covers before the match is the responsibility of the Ground Authority and may include full covering if required.

The pitch shall be entirely protected against rain up to the commencement of play.

However, the Ground Authority shall grant suitable facility to the captains to inspect the pitch before the nomination of their players and to the umpires to discharge their duties as laid down in clauses 2 (The umpires), 6 (The pitch), 7 (The creases), 8 (The wickets), and 9 (Preparation and maintenance of the playing area).

• 10.2. During the matchThe pitch shall be entirely protected against rain up to the commencement of play each day, and for the duration of the period of the match. It shall be wholly covered at the termination of each day’s play or providing the weather is fine, within a period of two hours thereafter.

The covers must totally protect the pitch and also the pitch surroundings, to a minimum of 5 metres either side of the pitch, and any worn or soft areas in the outfield.

The bowlers’ run-ups shall be covered during inclement weather, in order to keep them dry, to a distance of at least 10 x 10 metres.

• 10.3. Removal of coversAll covers (including “hessian” or “scrim” covers used to protect the pitch against the sun) shall be removed not later than 2 1⁄2 hours before the scheduled start of play provided it is not raining at the time, but the pitch will be covered again if rain falls prior to the commencement of play.