Derbys shed light on problem

Derbyshire will rotate their square by 90 degrees at the end of the domestic season

Derbyshire have decided to solve the problem of the setting sun interrupting play at the County Ground by rotating the square by 90 degrees.

The work, which includes relocating the scoreboard and floodlights, will take place at the end of the domestic season at a cost of around £100,000.

Sun stopped play at the County Ground for the first time in June 2006 during the televised Friends Provident Trophy match against Nottinghamshire and several matches were affected during the 2007 campaign.

This season Derbyshire will aim to manage the problem by using sophisticated technology to predict the location of the sun in advance so that an appropriate strip can be prepared for the game.

The county have consulted at length with ECB specialists and will engage the services of one of their recommended contractors to ensure the highly technical process is carried out to the highest specifications.

Derbyshire chief executive Tom Sears said: “The problems we have had with the setting sun in recent seasons are well documented. To be forced to stop play in perfect conditions is an unacceptable situation for players, officials, broadcasters and most importantly our members and supporters.

“As a club we have to look at the long term and we have a commitment to providing the best possible facilities for players, officials and spectators.

"Turning the square will ensure that we never endure this problem again and importantly that any future development of the ground can be centred around a playing area that is fit for purpose.”