The start of Cup Match was delayed by more than four hours today owing to damaged infrastructure at Somerset Cricket Club caused by recent high winds and torrential downpours.

It meant that the annual two-day classic started after 2pm and not at 10am as per norm, with the contest to start an hour earlier — at 9am — on Friday to compensate for the lost time on the first day of play.

However, thousands of people were still waiting outside the grounds as the game got under way because the site had earlier been closed to the public while safety inspections were carried.

Richard Scott, the Somerset Cricket Club president, announced a start-time change in a press release shortly before 6.45am.

“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!”

It is understood that the required scaffolding safety inspections further delayed the start time.

• UPDATE: this article has been updated with the latest information available