The opening day of the 2026 Annual Cup Match Classic at Somerset Cricket Club has been delayed by three hours after torrential rain and strong winds hampered final preparations at the historic venue.
The match, originally scheduled to begin in the morning, is now expected to get underway at 1:00 p.m., weather permitting. Organizers have been battling challenging conditions throughout the week, with the adverse weather system forecast days in advance as it moved off the east coast of the United States toward Bermuda.
Despite the delays, groundsman Reid Jones remains confident that the wicket has been well protected and will be ready for play once conditions improve.
“Our biggest hurdle has just been the rain and trying to keep it dry, which we have been successful at thus far,” Jones told TNN News. “The inclement weather has created a few challenges and setbacks, but we’ve been doing this for many years. Hopefully we can rectify everything and get things sorted as soon as possible.”
Jones described the surface as “a wicket for playing cricket,” adding with a smile that it is “a Somerset victory wicket.” However, he stressed that both teams would have equal opportunity on the surface and that success would come down to whichever side applies itself best.
He also explained that a heavy roller had been brought in to assist with pitch preparation while maintenance was being carried out on Somerset’s own equipment. Newly purchased pitch covers, combined with a moisture-absorbing material known as Brandap, have helped keep the wicket remarkably dry despite the heavy rainfall.
“The wind was probably our biggest concern because it wanted to lift the covers, but overall they’ve done exactly what we expected them to do,” Jones said.
While acknowledging the wet weather, Jones expressed little concern about the outfield, noting Somerset Cricket Club’s excellent drainage system.
“The outfield should be fast. It may be a little sticky at first, but normally it’s a quick outfield,” he said.
When asked what advice he would give the captain winning the toss, Jones kept his response simple.
“Stick to your game plan and do what you do best.”
Following the interview, TNN News was informed that once play begins, spectators can expect a lively, bouncy wicket that could provide an exciting contest between bat and ball.
Somerset Cricket Club enters this year’s Classic as the defending Cup Match champions and will be hoping home field advantage translates into another successful campaign once the weather clears.
TNN News will continue to monitor conditions throughout the day and provide updates on the revised start time and all the action from Somerset Cricket Club.
As Bermuda celebrates Emancipation Day, TNN News extends best wishes to everyone enjoying the Cup Match holiday and reminds the public to celebrate responsibly: If you’re going to drink, don’t drive. The life you save could be your own.
Photo courtesy of TNN Freelance Correspondent Wayne Caines
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