The Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) and the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) are collaborating on a programme of short course training modules that will provide volunteer cricket grounds staff with introductory training and tuition into the preparation and maintenance of playing surfaces in a sustainable way.

Initially, the courses will be provided free of charge but will have limited places available.

Delivered by qualified IOG instructors, the new pilot programme of one-day courses will compliment the newly launched NatWest Pitch Doctor and the wide range of services offered by the ECB, and further extend the IOG’s longstanding and ongoing work with the ECB in delivering cricket-focused training programmes, from Foundation to Advanced level.

A range of courses, starting in May, are available:

• Early spring maintenance of the cricket square 
• Setting out a square and marking a pitch
• Match pitch preparation
• Winter pitch to cricket outfield
• Non-turf pitches and practice areas
• Mid-season pitch recovery
• Post season renovation
• Close season maintenance
• Safe working practices
• Machinery maintenance and operation
• Assessment and planning for post-season renovations
• Maintenance following reconstruction works
• Growing-in newly laid squares.