SPORTING GROUNDS
but they need just a little bit of green. I don’ t think there was the expectation from the group that we do that level of maintenance.”
The concrete slab for the center cricket pitch was topped with an outdoor carpet that is glued directly to the concrete. The carpet is just basic outdoor carpeting that can be purchased at a local home improvement center or carpet store.
For other sports field managers and parks and recreation professionals who are interested in adding cricket to their facilities, Neighbor said that the center pitch is the main consideration; but beyond that, the wear is very well distributed throughout the cricket field.
Other considerations, however, include having a shaded area for the“ dugout” areas, as well as electrical for the scoreboard.
“ Our cricket association provides its own scoreboard, but it is portable,” he said.“ They’ re able to set it up, but they do need electricity for that. The other thing we did recently was to pour another pad for a batting cage for their practices. That batting cage area is outside of the play area. I would also look at replacing the carpet on the center cricket pitch slab every four years or so on average.”
According to Neighbor, the key is how the field plays for all user groups.
“ While we cannot control use or moisture, we focus on what we can control, such as how the surface plays,” he stated.“ We do this by implementing the basics: regular mowing( observing the 1 / 3 rule), regular aeration, overseeding, and proper fertility.
“ It’ s a challenge as a sports field manager, but one that continues to deepen our appreciation for the partnerships that we have built and provides opportunities for all residents to participate in the sports they enjoy.”
Content and photos provided by Brent Neighbor, CSFM. John Kmitta contributed to this report.
30 SportsField Management | April 2026 sportsfieldmanagementonline. com