Friday Fireside # 21

15th March 2024 (and unlike Julius Caesar, we umpires have no need to fear this date!) 

FINALS – Week 2

1. Important advice regarding covers for Saturday 16th March

2.Thank you to all umpires for a wonderful effort in Finals Week 1.

1. Pitch Covers – 16th March/ 17th March 

The following advice has been issued to clubs by VSDCA CEO, Mr. Ken Hilton, qte

The Chair of the Wet Weather Committee has requested that I advise all clubs that use of covers are ‘optional’ for this weekend.

If you decide to use a single cover, you must also use hessian.

Wishing everyone all the best for the weekend of cricket.

End qte

Thus, if clubs are NOT laying covers, umpires are relieved of their duty to supervise.

Note however the requirement to use hessian  - umpires should ascertain whether the host club intends to cover and if it does, supervise that hessian is used.

2. Thank You to all Umpires

Last weekend we had the most challenging conditions with a heatwave across Melbourne in the lead up to the weekend and on both match days.

Nevertheless, all matches proceeded under conscientious, diligent officiating; such was the dedication of the VSDCA umpires.

Clubs and players appreciated this and we simply say – “Well done!” to all.

This weekend, conditions are more benign - a blessing to all appointed umpires.

If you have been appointed, congratulations – enjoy your weekend. Do your best, and have fun!

To those umpires who have missed out this weekend, thanks for a season of commitment to the VSDCA. Your co-operation with appointments, changes, and travel are not taken for granted and are much appreciated.

Neill Murray

VSDCA Appointment Officer