Surrey begin drainage overhaul

Work began today on a new drainage project at the Brit Oval which will reduce the amount of play lost to the weather.

The £750,000 scheme will see a new drainage and irrigation system installed, bringing Surrey’s home in line with ECB guidelines that specify that grounds must drain a 30mm of rain per hour.

This will reduce delays in play caused by poor weather and means fewer overs will be lost in international and domestic matches at the ground.

Surrey operations director Clive Stephens said: “We’re extremely conscious in providing world-class facilities here at the Brit Oval for all spectators, cricketers and all other important stakeholders to enjoy.

“This project is paramount in helping us achieve this. The work will ensure that the paying public’s opportunity to watch cricket is maximised, with rain delays being kept to an absolute minimum.

“We’re also pleased to say that in addition to an already superb cricket wicket that is continually produced by Bill Gordon and his team, they’ll also get the added benefit of a flatter and greener looking outfield which will be easier to maintain thanks to our new state of the art irrigation system.”

The project is expected to be completed by Christmas.