Grounds for concern

One of the Barbados Cricket Association's (BCA) new pitch inspectors believes many Division 1 club grounds and facilities need to be upgraded.

Vincent Lashley also believes the governing body should help clubs to beef up their facilities.

"Most of the grounds are in bad state. They are not really good for fielding," he told NATIONSPORT.

"Our grounds leave a lot to be desired. Some are bumpy and some are void of grass in some areas. They need constant management and they need someone with dedication to see that these grounds maintain a good standard."

He was speaking after completing an inspection at the Cable & Wireless BET ground on Sunday's final day of the sixth round Courts/Suzuki Division 1 match between the hosts and United Carlton.

Pitch inspectors, introduced this season following changes to the Division 1 competition, have been mandated by the BCA to look at all aspects of the physical condition of clubs. Inspections are carried out prior to and during matches.

Lashley also said the pavilions of some clubs were not up to scratch.

"There are some which are up to standard, like Carlton and BET, but most of the clubs still need improvement," he said. "One of the things I would like to recommend to the BCA is that they should work in collaboration with whoever constructs these things, and make dimensions for a minimum-sized room for players, especially the dressing areas."

He added that it was also important for clubs to have an area which umpires could utilise.

Lashley, a longstanding member of Dover Club, which he said boasted of "fairly nice" facilities, said the BCA should try its best to assist the clubs wherever possible.

"I would like to urge the clubs which need help to put some pressure on their parent organisation and look for sponsorship," he said. "Don't be afraid to beg. It will help. Most of the times you won't have to depend on club funds. The BCA should be able to assist them."

Provision for the use of covers at every Division 1 match was introduced this season, and Lashley said the clubs had made every effort to ensure that they were utilised in the best possible way.

"Since the grounds people have been informed of the pitch inspectors, they want to do a creditable job in order to gain the respect of the BCA," he said.