NDCA Statement on Weekend Fixtures Amid Extreme Heat Forecast
With temperatures forecast to reach the high 30s and even 40 degrees tomorrow, the NDCA Executive met this afternoon to review this weekend’s scheduled fixtures. We noted the decision by the Sydney Cricket Association (SCA) to postpone tomorrow’s Premier and Shires cricket in Sydney due to extreme heat.
Current Position
At this stage, NDCA has decided to proceed with this weekend’s fixtures based on:
- Predicted forecasts within our three LGAs
- The forecasted Heat Stress Risk Index (HSRI)
- The fact that the Hunter region is not currently classified under the Bureau of Meteorology’s Extreme Heatwave Warning
We will continue to monitor conditions closely and reserve the right to revise this decision before 10:30 AM tomorrow.
Player & Official Safety – Key Guidelines
Please ensure all players and officials are prepared for extreme heat conditions. The NDCUA has provided a one-page cheat sheet for Saturday. Key points include:
Heat Policy & HSRI
- Review the NDCA Heat Policy (Handbook, p.106)
- Access the Cricket NSW HSRI tool at https://cnsw.ludisanalytics.com/ with location settings ON
- Check HSRI 1 hour before play and monitor regularly during the match
Play Suspension
- Play must cease immediately if HSRI reaches 11 or higher
- Play may resume only when HSRI drops to 10 or less and captains agree it is safe (wait 15 minutes for stability)
Captain Responsibilities
- Captains are responsible for player safety and may suspend or prevent play if conditions are dangerous
- Watch for signs of heat stress (e.g., exhaustion, cramps, dizziness, collapse) and seek medical assistance if needed
Hydration & Safety Tips
- Hydrate well in the days leading up to the match
- Drink plenty of water on match day, seek shade during breaks, and cool down post-game
- Minimise alcohol consumption before and after matches
Player welfare is our priority. Please apply these guidelines diligently and stay safe this weekend.
