Very Hot Weather Policy

Temperature is one component of the conditions of play – just like rainfall, pitch condition, grass length etc.

Local conditions also have a significant effect on how the temperature impacts players. MSW Cricket is played in

summer and Brisbane has a hot climate, so players will inevitably experience discomfort from the playing

conditions. This will be felt differently by different individuals. Therefore:

There is no pre-determined temperature which will cause matches to be abandoned but as always player

safety is paramount.

If very high temperatures are anticipated:

• Coaches and managers of both teams must discuss with each other strategies to reduce heat effect on

players. Do this as early as possible, depending on any advance warning available. Dialogue is important.

The safety of players is paramount.

• Commencing or continuing a match during excessive temperatures should be viewed in a similar

manner to rain affected matches. The team coaches and captains should discuss the conditions under

which play would take place. Note: It is not anticipated that a morning game will be abandoned before

play begins for reasons of temperature alone as it is highly unlikely that the temperature at 8 am could

be said to present a danger to the players.

• Increase the number and length of drink breaks.

• Enforce Sun Smart protocols of wearing a hat, applying sunscreen on a regular basis, wearing sunglasses

and drinking plenty of fluids.

• Have ice packs available for general application and for use in the event of heat stress.

• Have water sprayers available to keep the players cool – the umpires could have one each and apply to

players as deemed necessary.

• Have plenty of iced water available for the players. Some sports drinks can be beneficial.

• All breaks in play should be taken in the shade. This could be provided by way of tents or umbrellas and

so on if none is naturally available at the ground.

• Enforce shorter run-ups for bowlers.

• Everyone should be watching for signs of heat exhaustion (parents and spectators can form a useful role

here). The umpires have a duty of care to observe the players and allow them to leave the field if it is

felt that they are at risk. The square leg umpire will have a special role in being attentive to the welfare

of players.

• Advise spectators of the extra precautions being taken to ensure the safety of the players.

Signs of Heat Stress and First Aid

• Players not walking in or moving much in the field, sitting down, moving slowly or in an uncoordinated

way, vocal players becoming quiet, hands in pockets, complaints of headaches, flushed skin, confusion,

even aggression, delirium and convulsion are all warning signs. (Body temperature of 39°C to 41°C

indicates heat stress.)

• If heat exhaustion occurs, get the player off the field into the shade. Allow the player to have plenty of

room - do not crowd around the player. Loosen all clothing and apply ice or cold water to the back of

the neck or the head. Give the player a cool drink if they are conscious. If they do not respond

immediately call for medical assistance. Assess the risk of other cases occurring.

Lightening Policy

The 30/30 Rule. If thunder follows a lightning flash by 30 seconds or less play must cease and players and

officials must leave the field immediately. Play must not resume until thirty (30) minutes after the initial flash. If

during the suspension of play thunder follows lightning by thirty (30) seconds or less the suspension period is to

recommence.

See Standard AS/NZS 1768-2007 “Lightning Protection”.

Note. A 30 second time difference indicates the flash is within a 10km radius, a 15 second time difference is

within a 5km radius, and a 3 second difference indicates within a kilometre.

There is little you can do to substantially reduce your risk if you are outside in a thunderstorm. The only

completely safe action is to get inside a safe building or vehicle

• An unearthed outdoor shelter (e.g. a permanent park shelter or portable shade structure) is not a safe

building.

• Stay away from metal items, water and wet items. Water and metal do not attract lightning but they are

excellent conductors of electricity. The current from a lightning flash will easily travel for long distances.

 

If your cricket shoes have metal spikes, remove your shoes.