The pitch and field form the basis of a good game of cricket, but of all sporting surfaces, the cricket pitch is one of the most demanding to manage. The first challenge is to grow grass on heavy clay that is compacted and denied water for days on end until it resembles a strip of concrete. This is then subjected to the pounding of rock-hard cricket balls and the wear of bat and boot. Another challenge is to get the battered turf ready in time for the following game.<BR>The Cricket Pitch and its Outfield is based on extensive research and experience in the construction, preparation and maintenance of pitch and outfield. It is a clearly written guide for improving the general standard of cricket surfaces at all levels of the game, from school and club to provincial and national levels.