Somerset Cricket Club has apologised for inconveniences caused by inclement weather and scaffolding issues that wreaked havoc at Cup Match.

Many spectators have been left up in arms over the club’s failure to provide tarpaulin for their rented viewing plots on the upper level around the ground.

The club has also been subjected to complaints over the evacuation of spectators in certain sections, and scores of others being denied entry through the gates due to the unauthorised alteration of scaffolding in a number of viewing plots on the opening day of the annual two-day classic.

Richard Scott, the club president, cited high winds and persistent rain as reasons why some upper level viewing plots were left without tarpaulin.

“High winds and constant rain for four consecutive days leading up to Cup Match prevented the completion of the tarpaulin being placed on top of the scaffolding,” he told The Royal Gazette.

“We had work crews doing that right up until Friday lunch time. But due to the high winds which posed a safety risk, we were directed to bring the crews down to avoid injury.

“It was never the intent of Somerset Cricket Club to not provide tarpaulin for those on the upper levels. All those who have complaints can contact us at the following e-mail address: asecretaryscc@gmail.com. That e-mail should come from the official plot holder, not their guests. Plot holders should also include the plot number.”

Scott also addressed the unauthorised alteration of scaffolding at a number of viewing plots at the ground, which combined with the inclement weather resulted in the delayed the start of the match.

Long queues formed in the heat while the necessary safety inspections were completed, with play finally getting under way at 2.20pm.

“Unfortunately, there were a number of viewing plots where individuals had made unauthorised alterations to the scaffolding which attributed, not completely, to the delay of the start of the match from 1pm to the 2.20pm eventual start,” Scott said.

“The removal of scaffolding posed a major health and safety risk; hence, the evacuation from certain sections and the no entry at the gates. We had to sterilise the environment as best as we could at that time.

“The measures taken were an inconvenience, but inconvenience should never to be given preference over the health and safety of human lives.

“Whilst we know the delayed start to Cup Match 2026 put somewhat a damper on the festivities, this was not the first occasion for a delayed start.

“We do accept that the communication gaps need to be improved with getting the message to as many people as possible, we believe the best approach was taken in light of the circumstances that we faced at that time. Once a full inquiry is conducted based on the information and findings from the relevant authorities, we will make the necessary next steps in addressing the unauthorised removal of the scaffolding.

“Thankfully, we were given official clearance after the necessary adjustments were made to the scaffolding, at about 1.15pm and we were able to get the game under way at 2.20pm.

“We would like to say a special thank you to everyone for pivoting with us through the challenges surrounding Cup Match 2026, as well as, apologise for the inconveniences associated.”

Holders Somerset successfully defended their title this year after defeating St George’s by an innings and 90 runs, eclipsing the previous record for the largest victory in Cup Match of an innings and 66 runs achieved by their rivals in 1962.