The start of this year’s Cup Match has been delayed three hours due to damaged infrastructure at Somerset Cricket Club caused by recent high winds and torrential downpours.

This means the annual two-day classic will now start at 1pm and not at 10am as per norm today, with the contest to start an hour earlier on Friday at 9am to compensate for the lost time on the first day of play.

Richard Scott, the Somerset Cricket Club president, announced the change in a press release.

“This communication serves as an official statement from Somerset Cricket Club in complete agreement with and from St George’s Cricket Club regarding the start of the 2026 Cup Match Classic,” the press release read.

“As you are aware, we have been inundated with the deluge of torrential rain and winds in recent days, which has hampered some infrastructure finishings here at Somerset Cricket Club.

“After consulting with the Joint Agency Command Centre members and reviewing the forecast report from the Bermuda Weather Service, it was decided the best and safest decision was to delay the start by three hours. With the delay of three hours on Thursday, play will commence one hour earlier on Friday, with a 9am start.

“We recognise that there would be a bit of disappointment with the delayed start on Thursday, but the safety and general welfare of everyone is of paramount importance.

“We would like to say a hearty thank you to the plot holders who have co-operated in the setting up of their respective viewing spots amid the squalls of hard downpours that have hit the island this week.

“Gates will open at 6am and with hopes of no further delays, the first ball will be bowled at 1pm.

“Happy Emancipation Day Bermuda!”