How can choosing the correct grass seed be an important factor in player safety?
Using the right grass seed mixture with fine but hardwearing grass should help to produce a true surface with less chance of uneven bounce or “rogue” deliveries. Ultra dwarf ryegrasses produce lower crowns and low thatch (organic matter), whilst healthy plants with high root mass near the surface aid stabilisation where it matters most. This all supports other maintenance inputs in providing a consistent playing surface and helps stabilise behind the crease for a sure foothold. The movement of the delivery should be down to the skill of the bowler and the atmospheric conditions, not an unpredictable surface with inappropriate grass cover and poor stabilisation, helping both batsman and bowler. It’s important to avoid trial and error. Run chemical soil tests before the season so you can calculate the correct levels of fertiliser.
