Somerset Cup Match investigation continues
A “deep-dive” investigation into an altercation between rival players and the unauthorised alterations to scaffolding at a number of viewing plots at this year’s Cup Match at Somerset Cricket Club remains ongoing.
Somerset Cricket Club president Richard Scott confirmed that inquiries launched into both matters after his club’s record-breaking victory over rivals St George’s are still in the preliminary stages.
“The incidents are both in the fact-finding process to ensure accurate information is the foundation of any decisions made by Somerset Cricket Club,” Scott told The Royal Gazette.
“We want to ensure fidelity is the bedrock and these things take time; not making any decisions in haste or based on emotions. In due time, once due process has been achieved, an appropriate decision will be reached.”
Scott expressed his disappointment over the altercation and also apologised for the inconveniences caused by inclement weather and scaffolding issues that wreaked havoc at Cup Match.
Many spectators were left up in arms over the club’s failure to provide tarpaulin for their rented viewing plots on the upper level around the ground, with Scott citing high winds and persistent rain as reasons why some upper level viewing plots were left without tarpaulin.
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, 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.
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.
