Derbyshire opt to turn square

Sun stopped play will soon be a thing of the past at Derby - because the County Ground square will move in its entirety through 90 degrees to face north-south rather than the problematic east-west, possibly as early as 2010.

After a spate of interruptions and concerns about the angle of the evening sun making life difficult for batsmen, specifically in day-night matches, the Derbyshire committee had already sanctioned laying 12 north-south pitches at each edge of the square.

That was completed at the end of last season, as an alternative should problems with the sun be anticipated for a fixture, and it was thought no further work would take place until it became clear how the ongoing redevelopment of the ground was taking shape.

But it has been decided a further seven pitches will be turned at the end of next summer, in the hope that all 19 strips can be fit for first-class cricket in 2010.

The setting sun has caused problems for batsmen at the County Ground during day/night encounters

“By turning the square, sun stopping play will become a thing of the past for ever - and that can only be of benefit to Derbyshire County Cricket Club,” said chief executive Keith Loring.

“The final decision to turn the square was initially delayed pending a decision about how the ground will be developed.

“Development of the County Ground will still definitely take place. But the form that this development will take is still being investigated and is not yet finalised.

“In the meantime, the committee has decided that it makes more sense to push on with turning the square regardless, thus meaning that any decision on development will be made on its merits alone without the side issue of how this affects the sun-stopped-play issue.”

Derbyshire are confident they have made the right decision for the long-term future of cricket at their headquarters.

“Floodlit cricket is great for the sport, because it allows matches to be played at a more convenient time for spectators and adds atmosphere to the occasions,” added Loring.

“This decision will ensure that it continues to thrive at the County Ground unhindered for years to come.”