Ground preparation and covers

Law 9 — Rolling and mowing

The batting captain may request up to 7 minutes of rolling before an innings other than the match’s first, and before later days of play. After a delayed start following the toss, rolling before the first innings may be requested too, but umpires refuse if the delay has not significantly affected the pitch. The batting captain chooses between available rollers.

Before a day’s play, permitted rolling starts within the final 30 minutes; the captain may delay its start until 10 minutes before play. Pitch mowing finishes at least 30 minutes before play and outfield mowing at least 15 minutes before play, subject to ground and weather conditions.

Law 9 — Maintaining a fair surface

The pitch must not be watered during the match. Debris is cleared before daily play, between innings and at meal intervals, without damaging the surface. Creases are renewed when required. Umpires arrange necessary cleaning and drying of footholes; in multi-day matches they may permit repair of bowlers’ delivery footholes. Sawdust may secure footing only without pitch damage or unfair play.

Law 10 — Covering the pitch

Before the match, covers are the Ground Authority’s responsibility, but captains must be able to inspect before nominating players and umpires must be able to perform their duties. Unless settled differently before the toss, overnight protection and appropriate protection during suspensions cover the whole pitch and at least 1.22 m beyond each end, with bowlers’ run-ups covered where possible. Covers are removed as soon as practical and conditions permit.