SOMERSET, Bermuda — The 2026 Cup Match Classic faced yet another weather-related setback Thursday morning after Somerset Cricket Club temporarily closed all gates to the grounds while engineers carried out safety inspections on several scaffolding structures.
At approximately 10:30 a.m., TNN News was informed that all gates to the Somerset Cricket Club grounds had been closed as a precaution amid concerns that days of heavy rainfall had saturated portions of the venue, potentially compromising the stability of scaffolding and temporary structures.
Speaking with TNN News, President of Somerset Cricket Club Mr. Richard Scott said the decision was made solely in the interest of public safety.
“As a result of the weather conditions we’ve had this week, we just have a few issues with the scaffolding,” he explained. “At present, we’ve evacuated a few sections of the scaffolding. Nothing to be alarmed about, but we want to exercise caution because it’s better to be safe than sorry.”
Mr. Scott said several scaffolding sections were evacuated while experts conducted thorough inspections. At the time of the interview, officials anticipated the assessment would take approximately two hours, with about 45 minutes already completed.
“We’re hoping that everything checks out, so that once we get the clearance, everyone can get back into their respective tents,” he said. “The skies are beginning to behave, although it’s still a bit breezy, which has created challenges for the crews putting up the tents. We’re just dealing with each and every one of the challenges that are thrown our way.”
The eastern side of the grounds, where pedestrian traffic is heaviest, has presented the greatest concern after continuous rainfall left the area heavily saturated.
Mr. Scott explained that while the western and southern sections of the grounds remain in good condition, the eastern side required additional work because of the volume of foot traffic.
“It’s like anything else,” he said. “The more you walk around in your house, your carpet gets worn. It’s a very similar situation here.”
He praised members of Somerset Cricket Club and volunteers from the surrounding community for working together to improve conditions by bringing in milling material and rolling it into the affected areas to stabilize the muddy ground.
“We’ve been able to mitigate those very treacherous conditions from yesterday, so it’s looking pretty good,” he said.
Despite the delays and ongoing challenges brought on by the weather, Mr. Scott remained optimistic, suggesting the pause offered an opportunity to reflect on the significance of the Cup Match holiday.
“Perhaps this is an opportunity for us to pause and really think about the reason for the holiday and focus on Emancipation,” he said.
When asked to confirm that public health and safety remained the committee’s highest priority, Mr. Scott responded without hesitation.
“Yes, absolutely. We’re not going to compromise that at all.”
As inspections continue, spectators are being asked to remain patient while engineers and event officials complete their assessments before determining when the affected areas can safely reopen.
TNN News will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.
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