Technical


It’s that time of the year again. A time when cricket groundsmen will be starting up their trusty roller and heading out to the square to begin pre-season rolling. ECB Pitch Advisor for Lincolnshire, Martin Deans, offers some advice on how to approach the task and what to avoid


Pre-season rolling


here are many factors to consider before the pre-season rolling regime begins. Firstly, study the ECB document Guidelines on Rolling; this was produced in conjunction with Cranfield University and provides, in my opinion, a fascinating insight into the science of rolling and, more importantly, how much is necessary for recreational cricket squares. There has been much debate around the accuracy of its findings since it was published and, of course, there are many grounds with differing constructions to the rootzones which were used in this instance, so its findings may have to be adapted accordingly from site to site. The key factor, however, is the time we spend on the roller. This no longer has


120 PC FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014


It’s all in the timing... T


to be the notoriously mind numbingly boring stints of several hours at a time, which now not only saves man hours, but also fuel costs and possible hire costs. Before any rolling begins - at any time of the year - make sure the grass plant is strong enough to cope. Growth wants to have begun, the plant of a healthy condition and not under stress of any form. Ideally, it wants to be standing to a strong vertical position and the soil surface of the square completely free of any debris and organic matter. The soil profile of the square wants to be moist, but not saturated. If any water comes up around your boots when walking across the square, then not only don’t roll, but leave well alone until it is possible to walk across the square without causing any skid damage.


Ideally, the weather conditions want to be dry and bright, with a little warmth; overcast, drizzly days are of little use for rolling and will only create more problems. If your washing won’t dry outside, then don’t roll! Timing is key and, like comedy, it’s the secret to rolling. Getting this right will create a well compacted square to depth. It must be able to dry sufficiently for several hours after rolling has finished. Windows for pre-season rolling during early spring are limited, so become a weather enthusiast. Study as many local forecasts as possible before you begin and during the rolling programme. Dry days, coupled with wet days, will be of little use. Several days of dry weather together are, ideally, what is required. However, for the part time or volunteer


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