SACA Hot Weather Announcement for Sat Jan 9th

In accordance with this Policy, we have closely monitored the weather over the past week and have reviewed the forecast conditions for tomorrow and Sunday.

The forecast for Saturday indicates that we will experience a very hot day with a maximum temperature of 41 degrees. Sunday’s forecast is significantly hotter, with an expected maximum temperature of 43 degrees.

In considering how to handle grade cricket this weekend, SACA decided to look at each grade (and day) separately. The reasoning behind this decision is due to the average age of all participants in a particular grade (players and umpires) as well as the level of off-field support in the form of volunteers and facilities (air conditioned club rooms, fridge access etc). Subsequently, SACA has decided to cancel cricket in the following grades:

• Women’s A Grade (Sunday 10 January 2010)
• Women’s B Grade (Sunday 10 January 2010)
• Men’s C Grade (Saturday 9 January 2010)
• Men’s D Grade (Saturday 9 January 2010)
• XXXX Gold One Day Cup Grade (Sunday 10 January 2010)

SACA fully understands that players in the Women’s A and B Grade and Men’s C and D Grade Competitions have been frustrated by the abandonment of matches in late November due to wet weather, however the decision to cancel cricket in these grades tomorrow due to extreme heat is made with the safety and well being of all participants in mind. The Grade Cricket Committee will consider rescheduling these matches at a meeting on 2 February 2010.

In relation to Men’s A and B Grades on Saturday, SACA believes that with the assistance of participants and clubs, it is possible to continue these grades as programmed.

SACA does not believe that it is safe for players to participate on Sunday in the XXXX Gold One Day Cup Competition as many of these players will have competed the day before. Subsequently, these matches have been cancelled and will be rescheduled to Sunday 17 January 2010. SACA will liaise with Grade Clubs next week regarding confirmation of venues.
Participants involved in Men’s A and B Grades on Saturday are reminded to properly hydrate before during and after the match, to wear appropriate clothing (hats, sunglasses etc) and regularly apply sunscreen. Clubs are reminded to manage regular drink breaks, ensure all participants (including umpires) have ongoing access to drinks by running out ‘squirt bottles’ and stocking eskies on the boundary line. Chilled fruit should be available at the tea break as well as ensuring players have access to air conditioned clubrooms where available. We ask that Clubs ensure that all participants are monitored during and after the day’s play.

For further information please contact: Shane Bernhardt, Grade Cricket Coordinator, Mobile: +61 4 0408 273 629