Cricket Pitch Covers & Wicket Covers: The Complete UK Groundskeeper's Guide
Protecting your cricket square from the unpredictable British weather is one of the most critical responsibilities of any groundskeeper. The right cricket pitch covers mean the difference between a playable wicket and a waterlogged, ruined surface. This guide covers everything from choosing the right cover to correct positioning and maintenance.
Why Cricket Pitch Covers Are Essential
UK weather is notoriously changeable — even in the height of summer, a sudden downpour can saturate an unprotected square within minutes. Without adequate cricket covers, groundskeepers face:
- Waterlogged outfield and square, leading to match cancellations
- Surface damage from pooling water softening the pitch
- Seam and crack damage as the pitch swells and contracts
- Loss of hours of preparation work overnight
Quality cricket pitch covers protect all that investment and give your club the best chance of playing every scheduled fixture.
Types of Cricket Pitch Covers
Wicket Covers (Over-the-Top Covers)
Wicket covers sit directly over the playing pitch and stumps. They're the primary defence against overnight rain and dew. A quality wicket cover should be large enough to cover the full playing strip — typically at least 6m wide × 14m long — and extend beyond the crease area to protect the batsman's ground.
Flat Sheet Covers
Flat tarpaulin sheets are the most versatile cricket covers — they can be laid over the square, outfield or run-ups as needed. Our cricket pitch tarpaulins are available in custom and standard sizes, with reinforced eyelets every 50–75cm for secure staking.
Run-Up Covers
Protecting the bowlers' run-ups is just as important as covering the pitch — a slippery, wet run-up causes injuries and destroys the surface. Long, narrow tarpaulin sheets (2m × 8m or 3m × 10m) are ideal for run-up protection.
Outfield Covers
For major fixtures or when extended rain is forecast, covering large sections of the outfield prevents saturation and speeds drainage. Heavy duty tarps of 170gsm+ are recommended for outfield use due to the size and the weight of water they may need to shed.
Choosing the Right Cricket Cover: Key Specifications
| Specification | Recommendation | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| GSM (weight) | 170gsm minimum | Heavier covers resist wind lift and last longer |
| Material | Heavy duty PE or PVC | Fully waterproof; UV stabilised for season-long use |
| Eyelets | Every 50–75cm, aluminium | Allows secure staking; aluminium won't rust and stain |
| Edges | Reinforced/hemmed | Prevents tearing at corners under wind load |
| Size | 6m+ wide, 14m+ long | Full pitch coverage including crease protection |
| Colour | Green or dark green | Blends with ground; doesn't distract players |
Cricket Cover Sizing Guide
Club Cricket (Standard)
For a club cricket ground, you typically need: 2 × wicket covers at 6m × 14m (one per end); 4–6 × run-up covers at 2m × 8m; and 2–4 × flat sheet covers for emergency outfield use. This kit covers the essential protection for a typical club cricket season.
County / High-Level Cricket
Higher-level grounds require larger, heavier covers and a more comprehensive coverage plan. Outfield covers of 12m × 20m and dedicated square covers with drainage channels are standard at county level. The ECB publishes guidelines on minimum cover requirements for affiliated grounds.
How to Position Cricket Covers Correctly
Positioning matters as much as specification. Follow these guidelines: extend wicket covers at least 60cm beyond the crease on each side; ensure edges overlap (never butt-join two covers with a gap); stake or weight all outer edges — a single gust of wind can lift an unsecured cover onto the pitch; remove covers slowly and evenly to avoid disturbing the surface; and never drag covers across the pitch — always carry or roll them away.
Using Tarpaulins as Cricket Covers: What to Look For
Heavy duty tarpaulins make excellent, cost-effective cricket pitch covers. At Tarpaulins UK, our heavy weight tarpaulins (170–270gsm) are widely used by UK cricket clubs for pitch and run-up protection. Key advantages:
- Fully waterproof PE construction — water sheets off immediately
- UV stabilised — won't degrade during a full cricket season of outdoor use
- Aluminium rust-proof eyelets every 50–75cm for secure staking
- Reinforced hems — no tearing at corners under wind load
- Available in large custom sizes — up to 12m wide and any length
- Green colour options to blend with ground surroundings
Storing Cricket Covers Off-Season
Proper off-season storage extends the life of your covers significantly: clean with fresh water and brush off soil/grass before storing; allow to dry completely — never store damp (mould and mildew will degrade the material); roll rather than fold to prevent crease weakening; store in a dry, covered location; and check eyelets and edges for damage each spring before the season starts.
Buy Cricket Pitch Covers Online — UK Stock
Tarpaulins UK supplies heavy duty tarpaulins in the sizes and specifications required for cricket pitch covers — available for next-day delivery across the UK. Call our team on 01744 520 110 to discuss sizes, custom cutting and bulk orders for clubs. Browse our heavy weight tarpaulins — ideal for cricket cover use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tarpaulin do I need for a cricket wicket cover?
A standard club cricket wicket cover should be a minimum of 6m wide and 14m long to cover the full playing strip including both crease areas. For added protection, opt for 7m × 16m to allow for overlap and edge staking.
What GSM should a cricket pitch cover be?
A minimum of 170gsm is recommended — this provides full waterproofing and enough weight to resist wind lift. For exposed, high-rainfall locations, consider 200–270gsm for greater durability and longevity.
Can I use a standard tarpaulin as a cricket cover?
Yes — a heavy duty tarpaulin of 170gsm+ with reinforced eyelets is perfectly suitable as a cricket pitch or run-up cover. Ensure it's UV stabilised, fully waterproof and large enough to provide complete coverage with edge overhang for staking.
How many cricket covers does a club ground need?
A typical club ground needs a minimum of 2 wicket covers (one per end), 4 run-up covers and 2–4 flat sheet covers for emergency outfield protection. This provides adequate coverage for the full playing and preparation area.